As conflicts continue to reshape the international landscape, the concept of middle powers is emerging as a key factor in global politics. No longer just a theoretical idea, these nations are being tested in the real world, especially in regions like the Middle East. The war in Iran, for example, has highlighted both the limitations and the potential of middle powers. Their role, once underestimated, is now being scrutinized more closely.
The U.S. government, through Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, has cast doubt on the value of a middle powers strategy, calling it a costly distraction. However, the conflict in Iran has shown that this perspective is incomplete. Gulf middle powers such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have become targets of Iranian aggression partly because of their close alliances with the United States. These partnerships, while aimed at ensuring regional stability, have also left these countries more exposed and vulnerable.
In response, these Gulf states are starting to rethink their security strategies. They are no longer relying solely on U.S. support and are instead seeking new partnerships with other middle powers. Countries such as Turkey, Pakistan, France, and South Korea are being considered as potential allies for defense cooperation and security ties. These choices are based on the need to diversify their options and reduce dependence on any one nation, especially in a climate where U.S. policy can be unpredictable.
When Gulf states experienced attacks from Iran, it became evident that individual nation responses were not enough. A more coordinated and unified approach was needed. This means working together at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) level to pool resources and agency. This form of regional cooperation is essential, and it mirrors successful models like the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), where collective action has strengthened both security and autonomy.
Geographic realities play a significant role in shaping the strategies of middle powers. For the GCC states, their physical closeness to Iran complicates efforts to pursue hostile policies. The same dynamic is at play in other parts of the world. In the Asia-Pacific, for instance, some countries must carefully balance their relationships with China, while Central Asian nations face similar considerations with Russia. Geography is a fixed element, but how it influences policy can change over time.
Iran itself provides a case study on how geography can be turned into strategic power. By controlling the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has created a critical point of leverage in the region. Other middle powers can learn from this approach, using their own geographic positions to shape their strategic interests. The lesson is clear: geography is not just something to endure—it’s an opportunity to be shaped and leveraged.
The year has served as a crucial test for middle powers. While they may not be able to completely transform the global order, they do have the ability to influence it in meaningful ways. Their greatest strength lies in their collective action. By working together, these nations can guide global security priorities and reshape the language and direction of international relations. The challenge ahead is to maintain unity and cooperation in a rapidly changing world.