ABSTRACT
Gulf Cooperation Council States’ Perceptions on Iran’s Nuclear Programme
Iran’s relations with the Gulf countries operate on two tracks: on the one hand is a
decided need to cultivate ties and escape regional isolation; on the other hand, Iran
nurtures a desire to assert an independent and forceful foreign policy. Indeed, relations
between Iran and GCC states have been strained, especially since the Revolution in 1979.
Fearful of Islamic revivalism, GCC states supported Iraq during the Iran-Iraq war (198088). The 1991 Gulf war marked a turning point in Iran’s relations with its Gulf
neighbours. Though Iran opposed the invasion and took steps toward improving ties with
Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, one contentious issue divided Iran and GCC sates:
Iran’s opposition to Western military presence in the Persian Gulf. This paper attempts to
look into various aspects of Iran-GCC relations. The Damascus Declaration is a case in
point. Iran’s taking hold of the two islands of Abu Musa is viewed with apprehension by
the GCC states. Taking these issues into consideration, Iran’s nuclear programme has
been viewed with increasing suspicion by the GCC states. Saudi Arabia is threatened
given its proximity to Iran. Fears of an Islamic revivalism can destabilize the region and
particularly, Saudi Arabia. The United States is asking Saudi Arabia to expand its energy
ties with Russia and China inorder to further isolate Iran. This paper attempts to look into
various dimensions of this relations and how this shapes GCC states’ perceptions on
Iran’s nuclear programme.