The U.S. military’s involvement in supporting Arab dictatorships’ psychological operations is raising ethical alarms among freedom advocates.
U.S. Military’s Role in Gulf PSYOPs
Since the post-9/11 era, the U.S. military has expanded its cooperation with Gulf states, providing them with the tools and training necessary to conduct psychological operations. These operations are intended to manipulate public perception, supporting regime stability in nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. While this might align with short-term strategic interests, it raises significant ethical concerns about complicity in authoritarian practices.
The U.S. has a long history of PSYOPs, with roots tracing back to World War II. The Gulf War further cemented this practice, with the U.S. military collaborating with regional partners to influence Iraqi troops. However, the current dynamic in the Gulf, characterized by authoritarian control, has intensified these efforts, potentially compromising America’s stance on democracy and human rights.
Impact on U.S. Credibility and Ethics
As the U.S. continues to assist these regimes, there is a palpable risk to its credibility regarding democracy promotion. The involvement in PSYOPs that suppress dissent and control information contradicts American values of freedom and transparency. This dual approach may weaken U.S. soft power globally, as partners and adversaries alike question America’s commitment to its stated principles.
Moreover, the entrenchment of authoritarian information control in the Gulf, supported by U.S. expertise, could lead to long-term instability. While these regimes may achieve short-term stability, the suppression of free speech and dissent can brew underlying tensions, eventually threatening regional peace and security.
Calls for Greater Oversight
Recent revelations have sparked increased congressional scrutiny, with lawmakers urging more stringent oversight of military assistance to authoritarian governments. This comes amid growing awareness of the potential human rights violations associated with these operations. Some programs have been paused or reviewed, highlighting a shift towards accountability and ethical governance.
When the psyops (psychological operations) come at this fast of a pace, the people wake up.
Psyop doesn’t mean the event is not real… It means the event is planned and intentionally used for a psychological reason to move the public in a particular direction and achieve… pic.twitter.com/vOdwIhULpR
— Melissa Redpill – Freedom Force (@MelissaRedpill) October 6, 2025
The ongoing debate exposes the complexity of balancing strategic alliances with ethical responsibilities. While security cooperation with Gulf partners is deemed necessary for counterterrorism, it must not come at the expense of democratic principles and human rights. As the conversation progresses, it remains vital for the U.S. to align its foreign policy actions with its foundational values.
Sources:
ARSOF History: Psychological Operations in Operation Desert Storm
USAF Psychological Operations, 1990-2003
Wikipedia: Psychological operations (United States)
AOL News: The U.S. Military Is Helping Arab Dictatorships Run Psyops