In light of China’s expected push to full technology independence, GCC States would be well advised to conduct thorough reviews of the security implications of their technological partnerships with China, if only from the perspective of the ramifications this may have on their relationship with the United States.
The US elections present the GCC countries with potential challenges regardless of the outcome. On balance, the Gulf states would prefer a Donald Trump victory because it is easier to deal with an incumbent leader, who, despite being transactional and capricious, is still committed to the view that Saudi Arabia and the other GCC states are strategic allies and that the US has vital interests in the region that need protecting.