Kuwait's Compass in Regional Security Balance: Between Diplomacy and Force
The international system has undergone rapid transformations that have imposed a new reality on the concepts of power and interstate relations. A state’s success in safeguarding its interests and enhancing its standing now depends on the integration of its political, economic, security, and diplomatic tools, within a strategic vision capable of addressing evolving regional and global challenges. Modern security equations are thus based on the integration of policy and power, as well as on wisdom in crisis management and the capacity to protect national sovereignty and interests.
Kuwait offers a balanced model within this equation. Since its independence in 1961, it has pursued a foreign policy grounded in moderation, respect for international law, non-interference in the internal affairs of other states, and support for peaceful conflict resolution. Kuwait has solidified its presence in the United Nations, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, contributing to the support of multilateralism, the enhancement of dialogue, and the entrenchment of security and stability principles. Alongside its humanitarian role, which has earned it a distinguished position on the international stage, Kuwait has demonstrated a consistent commitment to these values.
Conversely, Kuwait recognizes that the success of diplomacy is linked to possessing elements of national power. The Iraqi invasion in 1990 marked a turning point in the state’s strategic thinking, reinforcing the conviction that protecting sovereignty requires building an advanced defense system, highly ready armed forces, effective defense partnerships, and close cooperation with GCC countries and friendly nations, thereby enhancing deterrence capabilities and safeguarding national security. Recent developments related to the conflict between the United States and Iran have demonstrated that the security environment in the Arabian Gulf is highly interconnected, and that the repercussions of crises can extend to states pursuing balanced policies and seeking to de-escalate tensions. In this context, Kuwait has been subjected to missile and drone attacks. Through official statements issued by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kuwait has firmly rejected any violation of its sovereignty and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its national security, while simultaneously calling for restraint, respect for international law, and the prioritization of political solutions to prevent the conflict from expanding.
This experience highlights a strategic reality: diplomacy cannot replace power, nor can power achieve its objectives in isolation from diplomacy. A state with reliable defense capabilities can act politically with confidence and defend its national interests from a position of strength. Meanwhile, wise diplomacy lends legitimacy to that power, directing it toward preserving stability and preventing escalation. Accordingly, Kuwait continues to develop its defense systems, enhance its maritime and cyber security, raise the readiness of its institutions, and expand its regional and international partnerships. This is driven by the understanding that contemporary challenges are no longer limited to traditional military confrontations; they also include cyberattacks, drone threats, and risks to energy security and maritime chokepoints. These challenges require comprehensive and integrated responses.
Kuwait’s strategy for addressing current crises adopts a balanced approach centered on strengthening national security, supporting joint Gulf action, and committing to diplomatic solutions, while diversifying international partnerships and consolidating regional stability. This approach safeguards national interests and keeps pace with rapid geopolitical shifts. The regional security equation of the 21st century is no longer built on choosing between diplomacy and power, but on their effective combined utilization. Kuwait has succeeded in entrenching this approach through a responsible foreign policy, growing defense capabilities, and a strategic vision that holds that protecting peace begins with building prudent strength, and that preserving sovereignty and stability requires balancing dialogue and deterrence, as well as political openness and national readiness. This enhances Kuwait’s position as a responsible state and a reliable partner in the security and stability of the Gulf.
Dr. Abdulmohsen Ahmed Al-Anqari
