The story: Gulf Arab media outlets have amplified calls for retaliatory strikes against Iran following the July 29 attack on the Israeli-managed Mercer Street oil tanker off the Omani coast. Meanwhile, some prominent Gulf journalists and commentators have urged action against the Islamic Republic for allegedly compromising maritime trade. Despite Iranian denials of any involvement in the assault on the tanker, Israeli and US officials have vowed retaliation.

The coverage: On July 31, London-based Saudi outlet Asharq Al-Awsat published an article that pointed to the likelihood that a drone was used in the July 29 attack on the Mercer Street. The article quoted an Israeli official who implied that Iran was behind the incident...