Gulf nations endured a severe escalation in aerial attacks on Sunday as Iran intensified its military campaign across the region, targeting critical infrastructure including Kuwait International Airport and energy facilities despite earlier diplomatic assurances.
Kuwait’s military confirmed direct strikes on airport fuel tanks, describing the assault as ‘a direct targeting of vital infrastructure.’ The national oil company implemented precautionary production cuts following what authorities identified as ‘a wave of hostile drones’ penetrating sovereign airspace. Official statements noted civilian facilities sustained material damage from falling interception debris.
Qatar’s Defense Ministry disclosed that Iranian forces launched 10 ballistic missiles and two cruise missiles toward the nation on Saturday, with most projectiles successfully intercepted without casualties. Saudi Arabia reported neutralizing 15 drones entering kingdom airspace, including attempted attacks targeting Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter.
The offensive continued despite Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s prior apology to Gulf states for earlier strikes and assurances against further attacks unless provoked. Within hours, Iran’s judiciary chief contradicted this position, vowing continued strikes on locations ‘at the disposal of the enemy.’
Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest international travel hub, temporarily suspended operations after intercepting unidentified objects nearby. Verified footage captured drone sounds followed by explosions and smoke plumes near airport concourses. Emirates airline initially halted all Dubai operations before resuming services.
United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan delivered a rare televised address declaring the nation in ‘a period of war’ but vowed emergence strengthened from the conflict. The UAE defense ministry reported detecting 221 ballistic missiles and over 1,300 drones since hostilities began on February 28.
Regional damage assessment revealed Iranian strikes hit Abu Dhabi airport, Palm Jumeirah development, and Burj Al Arab hotel during the past week, with drone debris igniting fires at the US consulate in Dubai. Bahrain reported intercepting 92 missiles and 151 drones since the conflict’s inception, with one civilian injured by falling shrapnel in Manama.
Saudi defenses destroyed three ballistic missiles targeting Prince Sultan Air Base—host to American troops—and neutralized 17 drones over the southeastern Shaybah oil field, underscoring the broadening scope of Tehran’s offensive operations.