Iran fires missiles, drones across Gulf, region remains in war crosshairs

Iran has launched missile and drone attacks against several Gulf Arab nations, including Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, escalating regional tensions. These attacks, a retaliation for a US-Israel war launched on Iran nearly three weeks ago, have prompted Gulf states to intercept the incoming projectiles. Qatar's Ministry of Defence confirmed intercepting a missile attack, while the Kuwait National Guard reported shooting down a drone. The UAE has reportedly been the hardest hit, facing numerous missile and drone attacks, with explosions heard in Dubai. These events have occurred early Tuesday, adding to the ongoing conflict's impact on the Middle East, which includes deaths, destruction, and an energy crisis.

The article discusses the escalating conflict in the Middle East following a US-Israeli attack on Iran in late February. Drones and missiles have struck the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, disrupting oil and gas industries and causing tourists and expats to leave. The UK has stated it will not be drawn into the wider war, even after Donald Trump called for allies to send warships to the strait of Hormuz. In other news, Keir Starmer announced £53m in government support for households reliant on heating oil. A student in Kent died from meningitis, and campaigners are calling for pollution alerts in Windermere after a child contracted E. coli. The BBC is seeking to dismiss Donald Trump's $10bn lawsuit over a documentary. Finally, Belgium's prime minister is facing criticism for suggesting normalized relations with Russia to restore cheap energy supplies.

Following a US strike that killed a top Iranian leader, former President Trump is urging US allies to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's joint military command has threatened retaliation, specifically mentioning potential attacks on cities in the UAE, claiming the US launched strikes on Iran's Kharg Island from there, though without providing evidence. The Trump administration has offered varying justifications for the strike, citing concerns ranging from Iran's nuclear program to its ballistic missile capabilities. US Central Command released video purportedly showing US forces destroying targets on Kharg Island, Iran. Tensions are high in the region as Iran vows to respond.

Drone and missile attacks struck the UAE on Monday, disrupting flights in Dubai and causing a fatality in Abu Dhabi. A drone attack near Dubai airport ignited a fuel tank fire, leading to temporary flight disruptions. In Abu Dhabi, a missile strike killed a civilian. Separately, oil infrastructure in Fujairah was targeted by a drone, resulting in a fire. These incidents follow claims by an Iranian official that rockets were launched from the UAE to attack Kharg Island, which UAE officials deny. Dubai Airports reported a gradual resumption of flights after the drone-related incident.

On March 16, 2026, a fire erupted near Dubai International Airport after a drone attack ignited a fuel tank. According to authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the incident caused the suspension of flights at the airport. Civil defense crews responded to the scene and reported that the blaze was under control. The cause of the fire was attributed to a drone strike, though further details about the perpetrator or motive were not immediately available. The incident is under investigation.

The US struck Kharg Island in Iran last week, a location vital to Iran's oil network and economy. According to the US Central Command, the strike targeted and destroyed military assets on the island. Despite President Trump's claim of "total obliteration," satellite imagery indicates the island's oil infrastructure remains intact. Kharg Island, a small coral island, is strategically important due to its oil facilities. The US has warned against interference with ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, threatening further action against Iran's oil infrastructure.

Following U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iranian oil facilities in early March 2026, toxic smoke clouds pose a serious health threat to the public. Health and environmental officials warn that breathing or coming into contact with the smoke from the burning oil depots can cause health problems. The strikes, which occurred in Tehran, Iran, sent plumes of smoke into the air, leaving soot and residue on surfaces. An oil facility in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, was also impacted by debris from an intercepted Iranian drone. The attacks and resulting pollution raise concerns about the environmental and health consequences for residents in the affected areas.

On March 12, 2026, amidst the ongoing United States-Israel war on Iran, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf nations, causing significant disruption. Bahrain reported strikes on fuel tanks in Muharraq Governorate, prompting residents to stay indoors. Saudi Arabia intercepted drones aimed at the Shaybah oilfield and the embassies district, while Kuwait reported a drone attack on a residential building, wounding two. The United Arab Emirates responded to a missile threat, and a container ship was attacked near Jebel Ali. Jordan experienced sirens in all cities. These attacks have further destabilized global energy markets, with Brent crude prices rising sharply.

On Sunday, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar reported missile and drone attacks, as Iran vowed to continue strikes against neighboring Gulf countries. Qatar stated it was targeted the previous day by multiple ballistic and cruise missiles fired from Iran, most of which were intercepted. Saudi Arabia's defense ministry reported intercepting and destroying fifteen drones entering its airspace. Kuwait's military reported responding to hostile drones that penetrated its airspace, with fuel tanks at Kuwait's international airport being targeted. Kuwait's national oil company also announced a precautionary cut to production. These incidents mark the second week of escalating regional conflict.

Iran significantly escalated attacks on civilian infrastructure and transport networks across the Gulf on Wednesday, targeting commercial ships and Dubai's international airport. These actions occurred as US and Israeli warplanes launched new strikes. The UAE, particularly Dubai, has borne the brunt of these attacks, facing an existential threat as foreigners flee. The escalation has caused oil prices to rise above $100 a barrel, with Iran threatening a long "war of attrition." Meanwhile, a review revealed the US defense secretary has voiced extreme antipathy towards Iran for years. A bill addressing the situation has passed the House, but lacks the necessary votes in the Senate due to filibuster rules.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, top clerics selected Mojtaba Khamenei as his successor. This decision occurred despite prior warnings from former U.S. President Trump deeming Khamenei "unacceptable." The selection signals a continuation of the existing political direction in Iran. Simultaneously, global oil markets reacted strongly to the ongoing war, with prices reaching their highest levels since the pandemic began. The price surge reflects increasing concerns about the potential for a protracted conflict and its impact on oil supplies. The events highlight a period of political transition in Iran amidst international tensions.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amid escalating conflict, Iran has signaled that his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely to be named the new supreme leader. Ayatollah Hosseinali Eshkevari stated a vote had been cast, and another cleric indicated the announcement would be made by Hosseini Bushehri. Wartime conditions have prevented a public gathering to confirm the selection. The news comes as Israel reportedly struck fuel depots in Tehran, and Bahrain claimed an Iranian attack damaged a desalination plant. US President Donald Trump asserted that Washington should have a say in the selection process, implying potential consequences if the chosen leader doesn't receive US approval.

Following Mojtaba Khamenei's appointment as Iran's Supreme Leader, his first official address, a statement read on state TV, has sparked skepticism among Iranians. Many question his condition and ability to lead, citing his lack of public appearance since assuming the role. Some suspect the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) holds the true power. The message included a vow to avenge citizens killed since the war with the US and Israel began. Doubts persist about the message's authenticity and Khamenei's actual involvement. The reactions were gathered by BBC Persian despite a government-imposed internet blackout. Pro-establishment rallies occurred in Tehran on Quds Day.

In March 2026, Qatar's UN ambassador, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, condemned Iran's missile and drone attacks across the Middle East as violations of international law and the UN Charter. She urged the UN Security Council to take immediate action to halt these attacks, warning that inaction would signal that aggression against uninvolved nations has no consequences. Her statement came before the Security Council voted on a resolution denouncing the attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Iran initiated these strikes, targeting what it claimed were US and Israeli assets, after the two countries launched a war against Iran in late February. The attacks have disrupted civilian infrastructure, energy production, and flights, causing casualties in multiple countries, including US service members.

Hamas, the ruling group in Gaza, has made a rare public appeal to its key ally Iran, urging it to cease attacks on Gulf states. The call comes amidst escalating regional tensions, with Iran conducting retaliatory strikes that have impacted civilian infrastructure and resulted in casualties in the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. While affirming Iran's right to self-defense against the US and Israel, Hamas emphasized the need for regional cooperation and an immediate halt to the ongoing conflict. Hamas, a member of Iran's "axis of resistance," receives significant financial, military, and political support from Tehran, even as countries like Turkey and Qatar, also targeted by Iran, provide support to Hamas. The group expressed deep concern over the regional war and called for international intervention to end it.

In March 2026, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates condemned attacks by Iran. The Saudi and UAE ambassadors to the United Nations issued the condemnation ahead of a scheduled Security Council meeting. The specific nature and location of the Iranian attacks were not detailed in the provided article. The purpose of the condemnation was likely to address the attacks through the UN Security Council. The article highlights rising tensions between Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran.

On March 5, 2026, Iran launched multiple missile and drone attacks across the Gulf region, targeting Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and Qatar. These attacks are a response to ongoing military actions by the United States and Israel, which began on Saturday and have resulted in over 1,230 deaths according to Iranian state media. Iran initially targeted US military assets but expanded to civilian infrastructure after the US/Israeli attacks. The Iranian strikes have caused casualties, including US service members, Israelis, and UAE residents, and have disrupted oil tanker traffic near the Strait of Hormuz, leading to soaring oil and gas prices. Gulf countries are on high alert, with air defenses intercepting projectiles.

Multiple Gulf nations, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, reported missile and drone attacks on Saturday. These attacks occurred despite an earlier apology from the Iranian president to Gulf countries, where he stated they would not be targeted unless strikes originated from their territory. Hours later, Iran declared its intent to continue strikes on sites within Gulf countries it considered to be at the disposal of its enemies. The UAE's president acknowledged the country was in "a period of war." Dubai authorities reported one death, a Pakistani national, resulting from debris from an aerial interception. Kuwait's national oil company announced a precautionary cut to production.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected Donald Trump's demand for Iran's "unconditional surrender" as unrealistic during a televised address. Pezeshkian also issued a rare apology to neighboring Gulf states for Iranian strikes that impacted civilian targets, stating attacks would cease unless Iran was attacked from those countries. This comes amidst escalating conflict, including reported drone and missile attacks on the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. Simultaneously, Israel launched a fresh wave of strikes on Iran, targeting military sites near Tehran, including Mehrabad International Airport. Iran retaliated with explosions reported above Jerusalem.

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is being considered as a possible successor amidst ongoing conflict. The Israeli airstrike that killed his father and wife has elevated his profile, despite his lack of elected or appointed government positions. Mojtaba, a secretive figure, has not been seen publicly since the attack and is believed to be in hiding. His potential succession has been criticized as resembling a hereditary monarchy, a departure from the Islamic Republic's principles. The possibility of Mojtaba Khamenei assuming the role of Supreme Leader is circulating as American and Israeli airstrikes continue in Iran.

Mojtaba Khamenei is the son of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and is being discussed as a possible successor. The article focuses on the potential implications of his selection. The discussion arises after a strike on a compound on Saturday killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This potential succession is significant because it could provoke anger among Iranians who desire political change. The article suggests that the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei could be a pivotal moment for Iran's future, given the existing desire for change.

Amidst escalating regional conflict following a US-Israeli attack on Iran, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated the UAE is prepared to confront threats as Iran continues striking Gulf countries hosting US military assets. His comments, made on March 7, 2026, follow attacks within the UAE, including one that resulted in a fatality in Dubai. While Iranian President Pezeshkian initially apologized for strikes on neighboring countries, judiciary chief Ejei contradicted this, asserting Iran will continue "heavy attacks" on areas perceived as aiding the enemy. Despite Pezeshkian's later qualification emphasizing friendly relations, he maintained Iran's right to self-defense, signaling continued tensions in the region.