The Middle East is on edge, and two nations—Israel under Benjamin Netanyahu and the United States under Donald Trump—are stoking the flames. Their reckless actions, especially the recent U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, are pushing the region towards chaos. These countries act like bullies, ignoring the pleas of Arab nations for peace and stability. Their behaviour is dangerous, selfish, and a threat to the entire world.

Ignoring Arab Calls for Peace

Arab governments, from Saudi Arabia to Oman, have begged for de-escalation. They want diplomacy, not war. The Gulf states, once eager to confront Iran, now see Israel’s actions in Gaza and beyond as a bigger threat to stability. Saudi Arabia condemned the U.S. for violating Iran’s sovereignty. The UAE called the strikes a “deep concern.” Even Bahrain, home to a major U.S. naval base, warned of the “horrors and dangers of war.” These nations, focused on economic growth, know that conflict could ruin their progress. Yet, Trump and Netanyahu ignore them, acting as if their voices don’t matter.

A History of Reckless Moves

This isn’t new. During Trump’s first term, he pulled the U.S. out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal—a move cheered by Israel but opposed by many Gulf states. That deal was a step towards peace, but Trump and Netanyahu preferred confrontation. Now, with U.S. bombs falling on Iran, the region faces the risk of retaliation. Iran has threatened U.S. bases in the Gulf, putting countries like Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain in the crosshairs. These nations didn’t ask for this fight, but they’re caught in the middle because of America’s and Israel’s aggression.

Economic Disaster Looms

The Gulf states have worked hard to build thriving economies. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have shifted towards de-escalation since 2019, even restoring ties with Iran to avoid conflict. But war could destroy this progress. Oil production, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, and other industries are at risk. Egypt, already in an economic crisis, fears a regional war could make things worse. Jordan’s tourism has collapsed as missiles fly overhead. These countries are desperate for stability, but Trump and Netanyahu’s actions threaten to plunge them into chaos.

Bullying the Region

Trump and Netanyahu act like they own the Middle East. Israel’s wars in Gaza, Lebanon, and now Iran have caused untold suffering, yet they face no consequences. The U.S., instead of restraining Israel, joins in with its own attacks. Arab leaders compare them to “pyromaniacs” setting fires while the region begs for firefighters. The Arab League, united for once, condemned Israel’s strikes on Iran as a “flagrant violation” of sovereignty. But the bullies don’t care. They push forward, leaving destruction in their wake.

A Plea for Change

The USA and Israel must stop acting like untouchable powers. The Gulf states, Jordan, Egypt, and others deserve a say in their region’s future. Diplomacy, not bombs, is the answer. The 2015 nuclear deal showed that negotiation works. Trump and Netanyahu should listen to the Arab world and back off before their bullying sparks a war no one can control. The Middle East has suffered enough. It’s time for these two leaders to stop acting like playground tyrants and start respecting the region’s call for peace.

FRANK KRISHNER IS AN INDEPENDENT COMMUNICATOR AND MEDIA SPECIALIST. THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS PIECE ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE AUTHORS.

  Frank Krishner, Israel, opinion, United States, war