Iran says all regional states are legally and morally bound to prevent US-Israeli aggressors from using their territories for attacks on Iran.
According to Aarti Tikoo Singh, journalist and geopolitical analyst, Iran’s message to Persian Gulf states is a clear warning rooted in its right to defend itself against US and Israeli aggression carried out from regional territories.
She argues that Washington and Tel Aviv have long relied on Persian Gulf littoral states to enable an illegal war targeting Iranian civilians and infrastructure, and that Iran is now signaling it will respond with full force if this continues.
She criticizes Persian Gulf monarchies for “handing over their sovereignty” and failing to exercise independent authority, noting that civilian populations in these states increasingly sympathize with Iran and oppose the presence of American bases.
On Iran’s dual strategy of deterrence and reassurance, the analyst argues it has been “remarkably successful,” highlighting Iran’s consistent pursuit of dialogue and diplomacy even while under attack.
She says Iran has shown maturity by avoiding civilian targets and maintaining negotiations during both last year’s 12‑day war and the current conflict.