Abstract : Throughout history, foreign powers have attempted to exploit the Arabian Gulf's strategic geographic position. Conveniently located between the east and the west, the Gulf controls important naval and land trade routes linking Asia, Africa, and Europe. Oil discoveries have turned the Gulf into an internationally disputed area, given the importance of oil western economic interests. The strategic value of the Gulf is also attributed to the link it provides between air bases in South Asia with NATO bases in Southwest Europe. As such, the security of the region is not only vital for the states of the area, but also for all industrial nations. This paper explores the dynamics of security in this region and offers recommendations for potential policy makers.