Headline: Hamas urges Iran to avoid strikes on Gulf states amid widening regional conflict

Why this matters: The appeal highlights concerns about the war expanding across the Gulf region and destabilising neighbouring countries.

Date: 14 March 2026

Tags: Middle East, Conflict, Politics

Summary:

• Hamas urged Iran to stop targeting Gulf states in a rare appeal to its key regional ally.

• The group asked Iran to avoid attacks on neighbouring countries and preserve regional cooperation.

• Hamas reaffirmed Iran’s right to defend itself against ongoing US and Israeli strikes.

• Iran says its attacks target American installations, though some strikes have damaged civilian infrastructure.

• Iranian drone and missile attacks have affected several Gulf countries over the past two weeks.

• At least 18 people have been killed across the region, including in the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

• Iran remains Hamas’s primary supporter, providing funding, weapons and political backing.

• Hamas condemned the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes on 28 February.

• The group is part of Iran’s “axis of resistance” opposing US and Israeli influence.

• Gaza’s health ministry reports 649 deaths since the October ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

What’s next: Diplomatic efforts may intensify as regional actors push for a halt to fighting and prevention of further escalation.