Gulf residents brace for possible return to war

Uncertainty over whether the United States will resume strikes on Iran is unsettling Gulf residents and disrupting business and travel plans.

US President Donald Trump has said Washington would not attack Iran before Tuesday’s midterm elections, while leaving open the possibility of military action afterwards.

The lack of clarity has left residents monitoring social media, reports of military movements and diplomatic departures for indications of what might happen next.

Some expatriates are considering leaving, while others are preparing for renewed school closures, remote working and flight disruptions.

The conflict began in February with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, Mostafa Salem reports for CNN. Iranian retaliation subsequently brought missile and drone attacks to Gulf Arab countries, disrupting civilian life and undermining the region’s reputation for stability.

Some families of US diplomats had begun leaving the region after returning following earlier evacuations.

In Saudi Arabia, residents described heightened concern following intensified attacks by Iran-aligned Houthi rebels. In Abu Dhabi, two US oil companies cancelled plans for executives to attend a major industry conference because of security concerns.

Iranian officials have meanwhile threatened wider attacks on regional infrastructure if fighting resumes, adding to uncertainty over the potential economic consequences. Diplomatic efforts are continuing, however. Iranian officials were holding talks in Qatar, although no US delegation was present on Saturday.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remained open to a diplomatic agreement addressing its core security concerns, particularly Iran’s nuclear programme. He gave no deadline for negotiations before any possible return to military action.

Iranian officials have also expressed willingness to negotiate but questioned whether talks would prevent further strikes.

The competing signals have left residents and businesses preparing for disruption while mediators seek a breakthrough.

Sources: Mostafa Salem, CNN, supplied report; Reuters reporting cited by CNN.