The Rebalance of Power in an Increasingly Competitive Persian Gulf and the Implications for UK Defence

The Rebalance of Power in an Increasingly Competitive Persian Gulf and the Implications for UK Defence

25 Jul 23
Posted by: LT COL SAM HUGHES RM
22 minutes, 31 seconds read
Message from the Editor

The author argues that, in light of China and Russia’s rising regional influence, the UK needs to review its strategy in the Middle East. The Persian Gulf is sliding down Defence’s priorities, yet there remains a large military commitment, which, the author argues, does not represent a positive balance of investment. Should the MoD consider moving its maritime and air assets out of the Gulf? A 25 minute read.

Introduction UK Defence policy has been slow to respond to a changing Gulf region, where a greater number of influential external powers and an increase in regionally led diplomatic solutions have reduced UK influence in tandem with that of the US. This is at a time when the 2023 Integrated Review states the region is the UK’s third, out of three, geographic priority.[1] Yet, it is critical the UK remain engaged in the region to protect its national interests. Therefore, Defence must reconsider its Gulf strategy against a backdrop of waning US and UK influence, a greater sense of regional self…

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