During President Trump’s recent visit, the leaders of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar privately cautioned against a military strike on Iran’s nuclear sites, according to three sources briefed on the discussions. Instead, they encouraged renewed diplomatic efforts, signaling a stark shift from their past support for confrontation.

In 2015, these same states quietly backed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition to the Obama-era nuclear deal. Today, however, they fear the fallout of a renewed conflict—particularly as all three nations host American military installations and could become targets of Iranian retaliation.

Trump Confirms Warning to Netanyahu

In a related move, Trump confirmed that he warned Netanyahu not to proceed with any unilateral strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. “This can be solved with a very strong document,” Trump said, indicating a belief that a new nuclear deal could be signed within two weeks.

Sources say Qatari Emir Tamim al-Thani, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed all emphasized the regional risk of escalation. They voiced concern over both Israeli and U.S. military options, preferring diplomacy to prevent further destabilization.

Shifting Priorities in the Gulf

Unlike in 2015, the Gulf states are more concerned with economic growth and regional stability than Iran’s ideological influence. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been gradually restoring relations with Tehran. Last month, Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman even visited Iran and met with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei—an unprecedented move that underlines Riyadh’s resistance to a military strike.