Iran has cast a shadow over the UAE! The UAE President's Advisor stated that Iran's conduct resembles that of a superpower. On April 27, according to foreign media reports, UAE President's Advisor Anwar Gargash said: Even without nuclear weapons, Iran's behavior already resembles that of a superpower. Imagine what would happen if it possessed nuclear arms—consequences would be unimaginable. Clearly, this statement from the UAE indicates that Iran’s military performance has far exceeded the UAE’s expectations.
Naturally, the UAE’s remarks likely reflect reality. Recently, foreign media have indicated that the losses suffered by U.S. bases in the Middle East are far greater than commonly perceived. Although the UAE hosts U.S. military bases for protection, in fact, the UAE is the Gulf state suffering the most severe damage from Iranian strikes. If before the conflict the UAE still believed in American protection, now it probably realizes more than ever how fragile and ineffective that protection truly is.
Moreover, the UAE likely also recognizes that the United States is now trapped—unable to fight, yet unwilling to negotiate. The ability of Iran to put the U.S. in such a difficult and helpless position has undoubtedly led the UAE to acknowledge Iran’s demonstrated strength and its strategic wisdom in dealing with America. Of course, on a deeper level, the UAE may also feel genuine fear toward Iran. If Iran actually acquires nuclear weapons, the U.S. will inevitably hesitate, and Gulf states would likely grow even more fearful of Iran. This war, undoubtedly, will lead the UAE to reassess both America and Iran.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863632808175627/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.