US and Israels Conflict with Iran Likely to End in Stalemate

US-Israel Conflict Enters Third Week, Regional Stability at Risk

The United States-Israel war against Iran has entered its third week, with the conflict continuing to spread across the region. The question now is not who will emerge victorious but how this conflict can be brought to a close. Each round of retaliation has deepened a cycle that threatens to engulf the wider Middle East in prolonged instability.

Earlier this week, Iran proposed forming a joint committee with regional states to investigate recent attacks on civilian infrastructure in the Gulf. The proposal suggests a cooperative mechanism involving Gulf countries could clarify what happened and determine responsibility. Iran has repeatedly stated its war is focused against the US and Israel, but continued missile and drone attacks across the region have heightened suspicion.

Gulf states have taken a cautious approach, condemning Iran’s actions and focusing on defensive measures such as air defence operations. This restraint is not accidental, as Gulf leaders are aware that direct confrontation with Iran could quickly spiral into a long and destructive regional war. The memory of the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s still looms large across the Gulf, serving as a reminder of how quickly conflicts can drag on for years.

The lack of clarity from Washington about the endgame of this war has also contributed to Gulf anxiety. Israel’s leadership under Benjamin Netanyahu is seen as a key factor in the conflict, with concerns that escalation could leave Gulf states exposed while others move on to different theatres. In response, Iran’s proposal offers a narrow but meaningful opening for regional de-escalation.

Gulf states may decide to cautiously explore dialogue with Tehran, even at a technical level, to prevent further destabilization in their immediate neighbourhood. This willingness to consider engagement reflects the complex intelligence landscape that has emerged in the region, including Israel’s extraordinary reach and ability to operate across borders.

Source: Al Jazeera