In the wake of recent airstrikes by the USA and Israel on Iran, the conflict has expanded to affect other countries in the Middle East, including those with Polish workers. The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised against traveling to these areas, but many tourists still went, leading to a backlash. Reports indicate that some Poles, who have remained as specialists in the United Arab Emirates, have faced harsh criticism on social media, with individuals labeling them as 'cynical beasts' for not halting their work despite the warnings.

One Polish guide shared her distress over the situation, revealing that she felt hatred from her compatriots due to her ongoing work. She noted that immediately following the attack, comments appeared that condemned her and others in similar positions. The guide observed a return to normalcy as she witnessed the UAE president shopping, noting the calmness in public spaces reminiscent of the early COVID-19 days in Poland. This comparison highlights the anxiety and uncertainty many are facing due to the geopolitical tensions combined with the recent pandemic-like societal behaviors.

As Poles grapple with these challenges, the discussion raises broader questions about national identity and solidarity in the face of international crises. The pushback against those continuing to work abroad invites a reflection on personal choices amidst collective anxiety, and it also speaks to the evolving dynamics of public opinion across borders in response to global events.