A new regional order for the Strait of Hormuz | GCC

The ongoing war between the United States and Israel against Iran has shattered the geopolitical status quo in the Middle East, creating a situation where GCC states are caught between two bad options: confronting Trump or appearing passive participants in the aggression. Seeking to balance their positions, these nations have an opportunity to establish a new security architecture for the Strait of Hormuz, which could provide Trump with a political off-ramp and elevate regional geopolitics while ensuring stability for all states in the region. This new order would need to address Iran's increasing assertiveness and its ability to choke maritime traffic with drones. The future of the Strait of Hormuz hinges on whether the GCC states will prioritize regional integration or succumb to Western pressure, potentially leading to an imposed order that undermines regional stability and prosperity.