In recent years, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states have pursued security diversification as a core pillar of their defence strategies. The guarantor model in the Gulf's security strategiesSaudi Arabia’s selection of Pakistan as a security partner illustrates the continued centrality of the United States in the Gulf’s security frameworks. Beijing’s notable absence during the 12-day war between Iran and Israel further reinforced its reluctance to engage in regional security. Despite concerns about the US, especially after Israel's strike on Qatar, Washington will continue to play a crucial security role for Gulf states. Debates over the future of Gulf security should therefore move beyond weighing guarantor effectiveness or seeking substitutes.