Gulf states balance US security ties with Iran diplomatic ties

For decades, the core defence strategy - of Gulf states - has been to prevent direct involvement in any conflict between the US, Israel and Iran.

But countries like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are now very much in the crossfire, with about 3,000 projectiles directed at Iran's neighbours since the war began.

The US has recently approved a $16.5 billion arms deal for several Gulf states, but will deeper American involvement boost their security - or force a rethink of the alliance?

• GUEST: Dania Thafer, Executive Director of the Washington-based Gulf International Forum