Iran (Washington Insider Magazine)— The unprecedented retaliation by Iran against Israel has revealed the fragile but effective alliance between Israel and key Arab states, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the UAE. This coalition played a pivotal role in thwarting over 300 missile and drone strikes during the weekend attack, averting a potential regional war.
A Coalition Under Strain
Despite the military success, analysts warn that the informal coalition could face significant challenges if Israel retaliates. Jordan, a critical participant sharing a border with Israel, is particularly vulnerable to geopolitical and public opinion pressures.
“There’s no easy position for Jordan, trapped between two troublemakers — Iran and Israel,” said Oraib Al Rantawi of the Al Quds Center for Political Studies.
Limited Arab Acknowledgment
While the U.S. hailed the coordinated defense as “an extraordinary military success,” Arab states remained muted in their responses. Jordan’s foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, emphasized the country’s sovereignty, indirectly addressing concerns over its involvement in the coalition.
Rising Tensions and Strategic Shifts
The attack, which Iran claimed was retaliation for an Israeli airstrike in Syria, also highlighted shifting alliances. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, typically cautious in their relations with Israel, provided intelligence and airspace coordination to counter Iran.
Despite its vocal criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, Jordan’s participation underscores its reliance on U.S. and Israeli support, both diplomatically and economically.
Future Challenges for the Alliance
If Israel retaliates against Iran, public opinion in Arab states—already critical of Israel—could further strain these alliances. Analysts suggest that retaliation over Jordanian airspace could ignite regional tensions.
“This fragile cooperation could unravel if Israel oversteps, risking alienation of its new partners,” warned Ghaith al-Omari, senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.
The coalition’s resolve will be tested as Israel weighs its response, with broader implications for regional stability and the future of Middle Eastern alliances.
