How the Iran War Shattered the Gulf's Illusions of Stability

The image of a well-heeled safe haven is hard to reconcile with air raid sirens and sudden explosions of missiles and drones.

Dubai International Airport following what Emirati authorities called a “drone-related incident” on March 16, 2026. (Photo by AFP via Getty Images)

The following is an excerpt from my new piece in World Politics Review, published earlier this week. Read the full piece via this gift link.