In a dramatic escalation of military conflict in the Gulf region, Iran has unleashed a series of missile and drone strikes in response to a US-Israeli operation that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The repercussions have reverberated across several nations, with multiple attacks reported against military and civilian targets in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and beyond.
A Wave of Attacks Across the Gulf
Iran’s military response began shortly after the US and Israeli forces launched their operation on Saturday morning, which included the targeted killing of Khamenei. By Sunday, the United Arab Emirates Defence Ministry reported intercepting 165 ballistic missiles and two cruise missiles, along with 541 drones aimed at various sites across the emirates. While the majority of these attacks were thwarted by air defence systems, the fallout from intercepted projectiles has led to civilian casualties and property damage.
In Abu Dhabi, debris from an intercepted drone tragically claimed a life and injured seven at the international airport. Additional reports indicated that the Etihad Towers, which accommodates the Israeli embassy, sustained damage from falling debris, resulting in minor injuries to a woman and her child. In the bustling tourism hub of Dubai, shrapnel from downed Iranian drones caused injuries and even ignited a fire at the luxury Burj Al Arab, alongside damage at Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports worldwide.
Regional Impact: UAE, Oman, and Qatar Respond
Oman, which has historically served as a diplomatic intermediary between the US and Iran, experienced a drone strike at the port of Duqm, injuring one foreign worker. This port has been a logistical support point for the US Navy, allowing naval vessels to avoid the perilous Strait of Hormuz.
Qatar’s defence ministry reported significant interceptions as well, claiming to have dealt with 18 ballistic missiles. The interior ministry confirmed that debris from these interceptions caused injuries to at least 16 individuals. The skies over Doha were lit up by intercepting missiles, showcasing the extent of the threat that Iran posed to its Gulf neighbours.
Bahrain and Kuwait: Military Bases Under Siege
Bahrain confirmed that its defence forces successfully shot down 45 missiles and intercepted nine drones, although the US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Manama sustained damage from one missile strike. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
In Kuwait, the situation was more dire, with the defence ministry stating that Iranian forces launched 97 ballistic missiles and 283 drones. One person has been killed and over 30 injured due to falling debris and direct hits. This included a drone strike on the main international airport that resulted in injuries to nine workers, further compounding the chaos.
Saudi Arabia and Jordan: Counterattacks and Defence
Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry confirmed that its air defences successfully intercepted missiles targeting key locations, including Riyadh International Airport and Prince Sultan Air Base, home to US military personnel. The strikes came despite Iranian assurances that its airspace would not be used for attacks against Saudi Arabia.
Jordan reported intercepting 49 drones and ballistic missiles aimed at its territory, highlighting the growing regional instability. In Iraq, Iranian drones targeted an international airport that also houses a US military base, underscoring the cross-border implications of this conflict.
Devastation in Israel and Syria
The Iranian offensive has also had devastating consequences within Israel, where at least nine individuals lost their lives, and 28 others were injured due to building collapses in Beit Shemesh following an Iranian strike. Rescue operations continue as emergency services search for survivors trapped beneath the rubble.
In Syria, the fallout from Iran’s military actions also resulted in casualties, with reports indicating that four people were killed and others wounded by an Iranian missile strike in As-Sweida.
Why it Matters
This surge of violence not only deepens the existing rift between Iran and its regional adversaries but also threatens to destabilise the broader Middle East. The ongoing conflict risks drawing in various international players, potentially escalating into a wider confrontation. As civilian lives are caught in the crossfire, the urgent need for diplomatic dialogue becomes ever more apparent, highlighting the fragility of peace in a region fraught with historical grievances and geopolitical tensions.
