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Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

The Atlantic

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UAE’s OPEC exit has been long in the works – and may mark the beginning of a Gulf realignment

UAE’s OPEC exit has been long in the works – and may mark the beginning of a Gulf realignment

The UAE and Saudi Arabia have long been at odds over oil policy. The latest move is also likely to further their broader regional rivalry.

previous day 3

The Conversation

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

How Iran war became a worst-case scenario for Gulf states

As both sides in war strike critical energy infrastructure, wealth and stability of the Gulf nations is at risk

21.03.2026 8

Salon

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

Targeting of energy facilities turned Iran war into worst‑case scenario for Gulf states

Iran has responded in kind to attacks on its energy infrastructure. With the energy assets of Gulf states now in play for Tehran, regional chaos grows...

19.03.2026 8

The Conversation

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

Iran’s targeting of airport, ports and hotels in reaction to US strikes has forced Gulf nations onto front lines of a war they want no part in

Qatar, the UAE and other Gulf nations have spent years cultivating an image of being an oasis of stability in the Mideast. The current war risks...

03.03.2026 6

The Conversation

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

Saudi-UAE bust-up over Yemen was only a matter of time − and reflects wider rift over vision for the region

Initially, the two gulf states were in alignment over Yemen’s civil war. But the Arab coalition’s unity has long since gone.

12.01.2026 10

The Conversation

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

Israeli strike in Doha crosses a new line from which relations with Gulf may not recover

Gulf nations were already becoming anxious about Israel’s apparently unconstrained regional activities. Now, a one-time thaw in relations may revert...

10.09.2025 7

The Conversation

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen

Saudi Arabia’s role as Ukraine war mediator advances Gulf nation’s diplomatic rehabilitation − and boosts its chances of a seat at the table should Iran-US talks resume

Perception as a neutral country has helped Gulf state position itself as a crucial diplomatic player in Ukraine-Russia war. It also serve’s...

14.03.2025 8

The Conversation

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen