Over the past two years, regional uncertainties in the Middle East have complicated US-Arab, and specifically US-GCC, strategic relations. But these same uncertainties — caused by democratic transitions and civil conflict — have also opened the door to new opportunities for closer cooperation and engagement. From training police forces and advising counterterrorism units to sharing intelligence and collaborating on missile defense, US-Arab defense and security partnerships have become more crucial than ever for all parties. American programs that help Arab allies build capabilities in defense and security can be force multipliers in achieving US strategic interests. However, solidifying such partnerships requires the United States and its Arab allies to candidly discuss and try to overcome political, economic, and technical challenges on both sides.