Though Arab leaders criticized President Trump’s military campaign against Iran, experts say many quietly support it.
After American and Israeli strikes on Iran, the region’s Arab neighbors have largely stayed silent, despite Tehran’s retaliatory attack on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
Qatar intercepted the missiles, condemning the attack as a violation of its sovereignty.
Though Arab leaders criticized President Trump’s military campaign against Iran, experts say many quietly support it. “These countries are quietly delighted to see Iran cut down to size,” said Firas Maksad of the Eurasia Group, adding that their main concern is avoiding Iranian retaliation.
Statements from Saudi Arabia and Turkey offered only cautious remarks, avoiding direct criticism of the U.S., and reflecting fear of regional escalation. Meanwhile, Hezbollah praised Iran but has not intervened.
Yoel Guzansky of Israel’s National Security Council warned Iran may strike U.S. allies, risking a wider war. “They don’t like this regime but they fear a chaotic and even worse regime,” he said. “Iran is like a wounded lion.”