The recent escalation of conflict between Israel and Iran has sent shockwaves through the Gulf states, forcing a reevaluation of previously budding relationships. Just years ago, cities like Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were seen as a hub for strengthening Israel-Arab ties, with Israeli influencers flocking to the vibrant Emirati metropolis, which sits only a short trip from Iran. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has drastically changed; the specter of regional war is as real as ever, with missiles exchanged between the two nations.
Residents of Dubai now find themselves gripped by anxiety as the fallout of Israeli airstrikes reverberates throughout the region. Heightening concerns is the potential for American military assets in the Gulf to become targets of Iranian retaliation, particularly with growing discussions surrounding U.S. military involvement on Israel's behalf.
Despite the UAE government's longstanding caution towards Iran, many citizens perceive the escalating violence as largely Israel's fault. Mohammed Baharoon, director of B’huth, a research center in Dubai, noted, “Now the madman with a gun is Israel, it’s not Iran. I haven’t seen any other state, other than Israel, who doesn’t want the war to stop.”
In a surprising turnaround, the UAE has recently waived all visa overstay fees for Iranian nationals stranded within its borders. Furthermore, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, the Emirati ruler, reached out to the Iranian president, expressing solidarity in these “challenging times.”
This dramatic pivot illustrates a broader shift among Gulf governments. Once considering Israel a strategic ally against Iranian influence, they are now recognizing the value of diplomacy with Iran as a more pragmatic path. As hostilities continue in Gaza with increasing violence, and tensions simmer over unresolved historical conflicts, numerous Gulf officials now regard Israel as a primary source of instability in the Middle East.
