The conflict escalated sharply following an Israeli airstrike targeting Iranian nuclear facilities last week, igniting a harsh response from Iranian forces. This dramatic turn of events has shifted perceptions in countries like the United Arab Emirates, which once saw Israel as a potential ally in countering Iranian influence. Now, Gulf leaders express alarm over Israel's aggressive actions.

In Dubai - once touted as a hub for Israeli-Arab relations - residents are increasingly fearful of the consequences of the ongoing conflict, with the specter of Iranian retaliation looming large. President Trump’s consideration to involve the U.S. on Israel's side adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.

“Now the madman with a gun is Israel, it’s not Iran,” remarked Mohammed Baharoon, director of a research institute in Dubai, emphasizing a shift in blame. The UAE government has even waived overstay fees for stranded Iranians, indicating a desire for diplomacy over confrontation. Meanwhile, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, the Emirati ruler, extended solidarity towards Iran during these turbulent times, marking a stark departure from previous support for Israel.

As the Israel-Iran conflict leads to rising anti-Israel sentiment across the Gulf, governments are reconsidering their alliances. Gulf states, once eager to draw closer to Israel, are now leaning towards diplomatic overtures with Iran for stability amidst the chaos of regional disputes and an unresolved Gaza conflict. The dynamic of the Middle East continues to evolve, with Israel's military actions now perceived by Gulf nations as a key destabilizing factor in the region's intricate political landscape.