Iran Conflict May Push Gulf States Closer to Israel, but Anti-Israel Sentiment Persists, Expert Warns

Iran's ongoing strikes are shifting regional perceptions and could open a window for Israel to strengthen ties with Gulf states, according to Ohad Merlin, a Middle East expert at MIND Israel. The UAE closed its Tehran embassy, Qatar announced military strikes, Saudi Arabia prepared for conflict, and Kuwait summoned Iran's ambassador — signs of a realignment away from Tehran. However, Merlin cautioned that Gulf nations fear Israeli regional dominance almost as much as Iranian dominance, and that deeply rooted anti-Israel narratives in Arab societies remain a significant obstacle. Countries turning against Iran will not automatically become pro-Israel, he stressed, noting that the Abraham Accords signatories faced heavy Iranian fire, which could deter further normalization.