Analysts urge Europe and Gulf states to unite as middle powers to counter great-power instability

Amid US ambivalence on global norms and the Iran war, analysts argue that Europe and Gulf states must leverage their geographic and economic strengths to secure shared interests. Key areas include protecting maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, building a joint defense industry using Ukrainian battlefield data and Gulf AI infrastructure, and deepening multilateral cooperation. The article highlights recent defense deals between Ukraine and Gulf states, and the UK-GCC free trade agreement, as steps toward a new strategic axis.