Conflict and Change in the Persian Gulf: The Smaller GCC States Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates

Conflict and change in the Persian Gulf region has been a way of life since the ending of Pax Britannica in 1971. This momentous change in the regional power base began a new era in which the local powers have attempted to create a regional balance which would secure their future peace and prosperity. The Gulf states hopes for stability have been severely challenged in recent years, first by Khomeini in Iran and then by Hussein in Iraq. Resulting from these and other threats during this period has been the formation of closer more involved relationships between the Gulf states and the United States. The Gulf states see this as a source of encouragement yet are still concerned about the long term impact of a western presence. Sources of conflict and change in the Gulf region are many. Most often discussed have been the external threats posed by Iran and Iraq, but each state also has existing or potential conflicts with its neighbors and fellow Gulf Cooperation Council GCC members. Potential for internal conflict is also present. Pressures for more representative forms of government are increasing and may become serious as monarchs abilities to satisfy the needs and desires of their subjects are reduced. other internal pressures created by population makeup and economic difficulties are posing interesting challenges.