Gulf states are moving closer to joining the conflict with Iran, with Saudi Arabia signalling a potential shift toward direct military involvement.Wall Street Journal (gated) report.Summary:Gulf states moving closer to direct involvement in conflict with IranSaudi Arabia allows US use of key air base, signalling deeper alignmentCrown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly close to joining attacksUAE cracking down on Iranian-linked assets, targeting financial channelsIran attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure driving escalationStrait of Hormuz control risks raising stakes furtherGulf states balancing deterrence vs risk of full-scale warUS-aligned Gulf states are moving closer to direct involvement in the conflict with Iran, as sustained attacks on regional energy infrastructure and escalating security threats push key players toward a more forceful response.Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, long cautious about being drawn into open conflict, are now taking more assertive steps that suggest a shift in strategy. Riyadh has agreed to allow US forces to use King Fahd Air Base, strengthening operational support for ongoing strikes and signalling a deeper alignment with Washington’s military posture.More significantly, Saudi leadership appears to be nearing a decision to enter the conflict directly. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is reportedly seeking to re-establish deterrence following repeated Iranian attacks, with indications that Saudi Arabia’s participation may now be a matter of timing rather than possibility. Public messaging has also hardened, with officials warning that continued attacks risk provoking a broader response and that assumptions about Gulf restraint may be misplaced.The UAE is also stepping up pressure, targeting Iran’s financial and commercial networks. Authorities have begun shutting down institutions linked to Iranian interests, a move that could restrict Tehran’s access to foreign capital and trade channels. This represents a shift from passive resilience to more active economic countermeasures.These developments come as Iran increases pressure on the region, including attacks on critical infrastructure and threats to exert influence over the Strait of Hormuz. Any move by Tehran to control or restrict access to the waterway would represent a major escalation, given its central role in global energy flows.Despite these moves, Gulf states remain cautious. Direct military involvement carries significant risks, including retaliation from Iran and the possibility of being left exposed if US policy shifts. However, repeated attacks and growing concerns over long-term regional security are narrowing the space for neutrality.The evolving stance reflects a broader recalibration among Gulf allies, who now face a difficult choice between absorbing continued pressure or escalating to restore deterrence. The trajectory suggests the conflict may be entering a more dangerous phase, with regional actors increasingly drawn toward direct confrontation. This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at investinglive.com.