Former Adviser Warns US Risks Leaving Iran as Threat to Gulf Allies

Amos Hochstein, a former senior adviser in the Biden administration, warned that the United States risks leaving Iran 'angry and venge,ful' if the war with Iran continues without a clear resolution. He made the remarks during a visit to Abu Dhabi.

Hochstein argued that the current conflict could leave Iran as a weakened but persistent threat to Gulf allies. He emphasized the need for a negotiated settlement, rather than an ongoing war, to prevent long-term regional instability.

He criticized the Trump administration's approach to the war, stating that while he supported earlier strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, he opposed the current conflict. Hochstein said he did not understand the war's goal and feared it would leave the Iranian regime with a 'long memory.'

Hochstein also highlighted the financial burden of the war on American taxpayers, noting that the cost of maintaining military operations in the region is being passed on to the public through higher fuel prices and increased defense spending. He called for greater transparency about the war's impact on US forces and infrastructure.

In addition to criticizing the war, Hochstein expressed frustration with the US response to the Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. He argued that the US should focus on restoring deterrence in the region rather than engaging in a war in Iran, which he said did not pose an immediate threat.

Hochstein also voiced disappointment over the failure to implement a phased disarmament plan for Hezbollah in Lebanon. He blamed the US for abandoning the process and warned that Hezbollah's actions continue to threaten regional stability.