To say picking a side is not helpful, is like saying WW2 was not helpful.
Wow... the Mufti's approaching Hitler for the annihilation of the Jews, their joining the Axis and then surrendering at the close of WWII; sorta allowed for the establishment of the State of Israel, and allowed for Jews to Return to their Ancestral Homeland. Truman reluctantly signed on to the creation of the state of Israel, only after the Mossad Bombed his apartment he was staying in whilst the White House was being renovated. (Per Harry's daughter Margaret) & then there's the UK
Axis or Allies and yes those were the collective sides and lines drawn. One might tend to say that the results of WWII with the creation of the Physical Nation of Israel with Jews in it, has been generally good for all of humanity as a result, in spite of their enemies. Iran may disagree.