Gulf Rivals Unite for War Games Amid Yemen Conflict

Forces from all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states have launched a major joint military exercise in Saudi Arabia. The drill, named "Gulf Shield 1," includes troops from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. The participation of the UAE and Qatar is particularly notable. Both nations are currently engaged in a bitter political dispute with Saudi Arabia and its allies. They have also backed opposing sides in Yemen's long-running civil war. This joint exercise demonstrates a unified military front despite deep political divisions. Analysts see it as a strong signal of shared regional security priorities, especially concerning perceived threats from Iran. The war games will test coordination in defensive operations. They involve land, sea, and air forces across multiple locations in eastern Saudi Arabia.