ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the actions and reactions of Middle East states to the “Quad Plus”, currently a US-led effort to strengthen engagement with counterpart states under the strategic ambit of the Quadrilateral (Quad) grouping. Because the Middle East is a large and highly diverse region, the chapter will use the case studies of three important states—the UAE, Iran and Turkey—as illustrative case studies. The findings demonstrate that the “Quad Plus” is viewed with suspicion or disinterest because it is US-led and is construed as an anti-China proposition. Of the three states, the UAE potentially has the most to lose or gain from ignoring the “Quad Plus” simply because it relies on the US as its primary security partner. In contrast, both Turkey (under Erdogan) and Iran are at loggerheads with the US. Yet, Washington is unlikely to insist on UAE participation beyond a broader cooperation in humanitarian ventures or pandemic responses. In addition, none of the three states need the “Quad Plus” to enhance their already strong ties with the other Quad states of India, Japan and Australia.
