There can be no doubt anymore to anyone in the Gulf or across the region that the regime in Iran, its Revolutionary Guards, and the terrorist network that it supports, pose a clear and present danger to all, and that the leadership there is acting in a malfeasant and malevolent manner. Its most recent manifestation is a ballistic missile that was aimed at Riyadh, one that was intercepted and destroyed by the defence systems of Saudi Arabia. Although the missile was fired by Al Houthis, these rag-tag rebels only obtained the capability to launch such a ballistic missile attack with the aid and assistance of Iran.
Make no mistake, the regime in Tehran knows full well that the development of its ballistic missile programme has but one purpose — to expand the territory it can potentially target and terrorise. The regime is exporting these missiles to agents and adversaries who have no compunction in using them, as Al Houthis have done in targeting aid vessels or, most recently Riyadh. The very movement and shipping of these missile systems requires careful planning and an advanced logistical network — one that is beyond the capabilities of Al Houthis and others.
Iran’s ballistic missile programme and the determination of the regime to export the weapons systems, provide the training and know-how needed to target and launch them, is done with deliberate planning.
This missile is a serious escalation of threats and destabilisation in the region, and it must be considered as an “act of war”, as noted by the Saudi Foreign Minister, Adel Al Jubeir. Tehran should be under no illusion that its act of aggression, its arming of others, and its abetting of terrorist and seditious forces will not go without consequence.
The Gulf nations cannot live under the threat of Iran’s missile programme, nor with a regime that is willing to export the technology, interfere in Arab nations from Yemen to Lebanon, Iraq and Syria, and spread terror and sedition.
This episode also highlights the dangerous path that Qatar has embarked upon, by seeking closer ties with Tehran. What is needed now is a unified approach by the members of the Gulf Cooperation Council in countering the threat posed by Iran. The events of these recent days should make the leadership in Doha think twice about the path it has chosen.
Make no mistake, Iran will face the consequences of its actions.
