Iran war latest: Gulf states discuss de-escalation as Trump gives Iran 'last chance'

As tensions escalate along the Persian Gulf and Red Sea, Gulf Arab states are increasingly turning to China for assistance in managing the crisis with Iran, according to multiple regional sources. The situation has intensified following a series of attacks attributed to Iran and its proxies, including the Houthi rebels in Yemen, which have disrupted critical shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. With the United States and Israel launching military operations against Iranian targets earlier this month, Gulf nations have grown disillusioned with Washington’s ability to protect their interests and ensure stability in the region. The conflict began on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure, which were intended to curb Iran’s influence in the region. These actions, however, have had unintended consequences, including disruptions to Gulf oil exports and increased vulnerability for Gulf states to Iranian retaliation. In response, Gulf leaders have sought alternative avenues for security and economic stability, with China emerging as a potential mediator due to its economic ties with the region and its strategic interest in maintaining open sea routes for global trade. China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, has engaged in frequent diplomatic outreach, holding numerous video calls and meetings with officials from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries as well as Iranian representatives. Special envoy Zhai Jun has also been active, visiting key Gulf capitals and engaging in discussions aimed at facilitating a ceasefire. A spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry stated that the country has maintained consistent dialogue with all parties involved, aiming to halt hostilities and promote peace. Despite these efforts, Gulf diplomats remain cautious, acknowledging that China’s approach is often measured and slow, potentially limiting its effectiveness in resolving the immediate crisis. Meanwhile, the impact of the conflict has been felt globally, particularly in the shipping industry. London-based insurers have expanded the area of the Red Sea classified as high risk, citing renewed attacks by the Houthi group on commercial vessels. This move by the Joint War Committee, composed of underwriters from Lloyd’s syndicates and insurance company representatives, signals heightened concerns over maritime safety. While the designation does not prohibit ships from navigating the affected waters, it could lead to increased costs and more stringent requirements for vessels operating in the region. In parallel, political dynamics continue to evolve. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed his views on the ongoing conflict, suggesting that the administration has withheld a massive retaliatory strike against Iran. He has also criticized Iran for allegedly lying about ongoing negotiations, calling the nation duplicitous. Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabian interests, underscoring the complex web of alliances and rivalries shaping the current geopolitical landscape. Gulf states, meanwhile, are exploring ways to navigate this precarious situation. They recognize that while China offers economic advantages through trade and investment, its influence is still shaped by broader strategic considerations involving the United States. Analysts suggest that Beijing’s primary concern is maintaining stable relationships across the Middle East rather than taking sides in the conflict, which could complicate its efforts to mediate effectively. As the situation continues to unfold, the interplay between regional powers and global actors will likely shape the trajectory of the crisis in the coming weeks.