The Gulf States is a collective term referring to the sovereign monarchies located on the Arabian Peninsula, primarily bordering the Persian Gulf. This group typically includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. These nations are characterized by their significant oil and natural gas reserves, which have fueled their economic development and geopolitical influence. They are predominantly absolute or constitutional monarchies and are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), an economic and political union. Geopolitically, they are significant players in the Middle East, often involved in regional conflicts and international relations, including relationships with Western powers. These states have been accused of funding anti-Islam narratives in the West to counter political Islam and promote their geopolitical interests.