People protesting the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran gather in front of a New York Public Library location on March 8, 2026.

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) The war in the Middle East is rapidly expanding across the Gulf countries, including Iran and Lebanon. The conflict has already targeted the region’s civilians, natural resources, tourist destinations and U.S. military bases.

Some Muslim community leaders in the U.S. warn that people far from the conflict could experience backlash. They say Muslim and Arab communities in the U.S. may face increased hostility as the war intensifies.

Originally published on theconversation.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.

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