The GCC and collective security

The Arab Gulf states have for decades looked externally for their security, particularly to the West.

The United States, United Kingdom and France have bases throughout the region, underscoring the Gulf’s importance to the West. But the sense of security these bases provide is not as solid as it once was.

In the US, a growing segment of the foreign policy sphere views East Asia as more important to Washington, largely because of the rise of China as a threat to American hegemony.

Analysts who argue that the West is no longer a reliable protector for the Gulf point to evidence such as the September attack on Doha by Israel, which continues to receive US support despite Washington’s attempt to distance itself from the strike.

The uncertainty seems to have prompted Gulf Cooperation Counci