Georgian expert predicts shift in Middle East power dynamics amid US-Israel strikes on Iran

Analyst Zurab Batiashvili on Monday warned that there are currently no regional forces capable of resisting the US-Israel coalition, which could potentially include some Arab states, signaling a major shift in the balance of power in the Middle East.

Batiashvili noted that neither Russia nor China is likely to take decisive action to preserve the Iranian regime. While some regional allies remain, including proxy forces such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, they are too weakened to take effective action against Israel.

“This may create a new scenario in which Iran could transform into a pro-Western state, leveraging its oil and gas resources to regain regional influence and attract other pro-American forces,” Batiashvili said.

The assessment comes amid the ongoing conflict that began on February 28, when Israel, in coordination with the United States, struck targets in Iran.

Iran officially confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at his residence, along with other officials. In response, Iran announced unprecedented military operations. US President Donald Trump has warned of further strikes if Iran escalates.