At a recent press conference in Tokyo, Yoshitaka Sakanashi, director of the Middle East Research Center at the Japan Energy Economics Institute, discussed the implications of the ongoing military attacks against Iran by the United States and Israel. Sakanashi described Iran's response as a 'desperate counterattack,' indicating that Iran is left with no choice but to utilize all available means as it faces escalating military pressures. The director expressed worry that this situation could lead to a wider conflict in the region, particularly following a week of attacks against Iran from neighboring Gulf states such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Sakanashi highlighted the surprising shift in public sentiment within Arab countries, which had been moving towards improving relations with Iran. He argued that there is now a significant backlash against Iran, suggesting that previous diplomatic efforts have effectively collapsed. This rising hostility amongst neighboring citizens toward Iran is a notable development, indicating how quickly the geopolitical landscape can change amidst military conflict.

Looking ahead, the expert outlined two potential scenarios: one where increasing casualties and military costs lead to dissatisfaction among Trump's support base, prompting a reduction in U.S. involvement and cessation of military attacks; and another where Iran collapses under pressure, unable to sustain itself both militarily and economically. These two possibilities underscore the fragile state of affairs in the Middle East as conflicts escalate and diplomatic efforts falter.