Gulf States: More Than Just Talk

It is hardly surprising that the question posed by an Arab-origin journalist based in London to the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) during the 2026 Manama Dialogue forum sparked resentment. This was not merely because it contained criticism—criticism is a legitimate right—but because it carried mockery and condescension, when she ridiculed the role of Gulf states with the remark: “You, Gulfis, why do you have nothing but talk, talk, talk?” Such an approach unfortunately reflects a stereotype that continues to recur in certain Arab media, cultural, and political discourses, as if Gulf states and their societies do not deserve an evaluation of the reality of their role, while ignoring the political, educational, economic, and developmental progress they have achieved, as well as the regional and international roles they have undertaken. Gulf states are not mere talk; they are actions, positions, sacrifices, and a long historical continuum of giving. For decades, these countries have borne the burdens of crises facing both the Arab and Islamic nations, paying and enduring the consequences of wars and political gambles in which they were not parties. They have shouldered the Palestinian cause since its inception until today, providing political, financial, and humanitarian support to the Palestinian people. They have also contributed to supporting the economies and currencies of numerous Arab countries, maintaining their stability during difficult periods, and financing development projects ranging from roads, hospitals, universities, and schools to dams and even wheat storage silos. Nor can we overlook the millions of Arab workers and their families, who found employment opportunities, livelihoods, and decent lives in Gulf states, with their remittances supporting the economies of their home countries and their families. Is this not a role that transcends the bounds of mere talk?

On the political level, Gulf states have become influential and respected actors in the international landscape. Gulf diplomacy has evolved in recent years, playing an active role in major international mediations through balanced relations with various global powers such as the United States, Russia, and China. They have been present in addressing global crises, from the Russian-Ukrainian war and the war in the Gaza Strip, to the Afghan file and the Lebanese and Yemeni files, and finally the US-Iranian crisis, while advocating for Arab and Islamic causes in international forums. At the same time, Gulf states have invested their wealth in building the Gulf human capital, developing health, education, universities, housing, and infrastructure sectors, and providing the prerequisites for a decent life for their citizens. They have not stopped there; their vision has extended to investing in future generations. Any journalist has the right to ask, criticize, and hold accountable, but it is unprofessional to dismiss the experiences of entire countries and societies with a mocking remark, or to deny a long history of positions and contributions. If all this giving, all those positions, and all these developmental, humanitarian, and political roles are considered mere talk by this journalist, then what should action and achievement be called? Gulf states are not a burden on the Arab and Islamic nations; rather, they have been and remain a fundamental pillar in supporting them, extending a responsibility embraced by their leaderships and peoples. They have borne many of others’ burdens, driven by their belief in shared destiny and the bonds of history and mutual interests. Gulf states do not need anyone’s certificate to attest to their giving, but it is only fair that their history and positions be read objectively, free from arrogance, mockery, and preconceived judgments. The Gulf has never been mere talk... The Gulf is a history of positions, a present of achievements, and a future of ambition and giving.