Gulf states playing a dangerous game in Syria

The bombing of two Shia mosques in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia on consecutive Fridays in May highlighted, yet again, the risks Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) governments face from domestic extremists linked to Islamic State and other jihadist groups. Saudi Arabia faces the biggest threat, because of its large population and sectarian tensions, but the problem is by no means confined to the kingdom. While other Gulf states find it relatively easy to keep an eye on potential troublemakers, they could still come into the firing line of militants.