UAE says its energy exports will not be 'held hostage' by Iran war

Qatar's foreign ministry spokesperson echoed similar concerns at the policymakers' forum, saying Gulf Arab countries should not rely solely on their strategic partnership with the U.S. for security.

"We need to realise in the Gulf that having international forces in the region, having a strategic alliance with the U.S. is very important but is not enough," Majed al-Ansari said.

"Self-sufficiency when it comes to security is the only way forward."

Gargash argued that while the partnership with the U.S. is essential, the six-month conflict has exposed the importance of national capabilities.

"Our security is our first priority. When we depend entirely on others, we cannot always assume it will be their priority," he said.