Israel used to be the shining star of the Middle East, the ally holding the line against the Iranian threat. But now? That star seems to be burning in its own flame, and the smoke rising smells less like peace and more like chaos. Israel’s allies in the Persian Gulf, who once hailed the Abraham Accords as a historic breakthrough, now see Israel as a potential threat to regional stability.
Abraham Accords on Shaky Ground
The Abraham Accords, hailed by the Trump administration as a revolution in normalizing relations between Israel and Arab states like the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, are now on the brink of collapse. These agreements promised a new era of cooperation, driven by a shared fear of Iran’s nuclear ambitions. But now, Israeli airstrikes on Iran have sparked divided reactions in Gulf countries. While some officials secretly support Israel’s actions, publicly they condemn them as aggression destabilizing the region.
Israel – From Partner to Threat
Once a key ally in countering Iran’s nuclear program, Israel is now seen as a source of insecurity. Officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman admit growing concerns over Israel’s military power and Prime Minister Netanyahu’s readiness to use force over diplomacy. One anonymous official said Israel is “recklessly trampling” through Lebanon, Syria, and now Iran, and that this unchecked power is no longer an advantage but a problem.
The Middle East Paradox
Ironically, Israel was supposed to be a pillar of stability in the region but has become a source of instability. Mohamed Baharun, director of an institute in Dubai, warns that Israel now has the capability to strike any country in the region, even Qatar, with which it has tense relations due to Qatar’s support for Hamas.
Gulf States’ Reactions – Mixed and Cautious
Saudi Arabia publicly condemned the Israeli strikes as aggression, while Oman called the attacks illegal and unjustified. Yet behind closed doors, some officials admit that Israel’s military actions “get the job done.” But caution dominates – few believe the ceasefire between Israel and Iran will last, and a new round of escalation could seriously threaten regional security and economic growth.
The Cost of Instability
Jas Faruk from the International Crisis Group points out that while weakening Iran is desirable, if the price is new instability and violence, especially when diplomatic dialogue was making progress, then the cost is too high. Israel, once a partner for peace, is now a security threat.
Conclusion
Israel has gone from partner to threat in the eyes of its former allies. The Abraham Accords, meant to bring peace and cooperation, now stand on shaky ground. As the world watches, the Middle East edges closer to chaos again, and the question remains – who will light the next fuse?
Got a hot take on this mess? Think Israel’s not the big bad wolf here? Drop a comment below and stir the pot – because this drama beats any Netflix series hands down!
