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

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.

Drone attacks disrupted flights at Dubai International Airport on March 16, 2026, causing a fire near the facility. Flights were diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport, and a temporary suspension was implemented as a safety precaution. In Abu Dhabi, a missile strike on a civilian vehicle in Al Bahyan area resulted in one death. A fire also broke out in an industrial zone in Fujairah following a drone attack. These incidents follow previous drone attacks and rising tensions in the region, with Iran justifying the attacks by citing the presence of US military bases in Gulf countries.

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.

The article reports on escalating tensions in the Middle East. Donald Trump expressed surprise that Iran has targeted US allies in the Gulf, despite their long-standing military partnership. These Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Oman, have allowed US military presence and are major buyers of American weapons. Now, they are increasingly concerned about being drawn into a conflict they sought to avoid, as Iran launches attacks on various targets within their borders. Separately, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed that Russia is supplying Iran with Shahed drones, some of which he alleges have been used in attacks against US bases. These drones, initially developed by Iran, are now also manufactured by Russia and used by other countries.

Amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East, Israel declared the war against Iran was entering a "decisive phase." On Saturday, explosions occurred across the region, including strikes on the US embassy in Baghdad and a major Emirati energy facility in Fujairah. The US embassy in Iraq was hit by a drone, marking the second attack since the US and Israel initiated strikes against Iran, plunging the Gulf into conflict. The ongoing conflict, now in its third week, has resulted in reported deaths of over 1,200 people in Iran, mass displacement, and a surge in oil prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian military warned UAE civilians to avoid port areas following the attack on the Fujairah oil terminal.

Recent attacks on oil tankers and ports in the UAE, specifically near Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, highlight the growing vulnerability of Gulf states amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. These incidents, occurring this week and on Saturday, have disrupted maritime activity and raised concerns about regional security. Despite Gulf states' long-standing military partnerships with the U.S. and attempts to diplomatically prevent conflict, they are now bearing the brunt of a war they did not initiate. Gulf leaders, who hosted negotiations and warned the U.S. president of the consequences of attacking Iran, feel they were not consulted before the strikes. The scale of Iran's response has shocked the Gulf states, who fear further attacks on their infrastructure despite assurances to Tehran that their bases would not be used for attacks.

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.

Iranian-designed Shahed drones, costing significantly less than traditional air defense systems, are increasingly used in conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East, straining U.S. air defenses. Recent attacks, including Operation Epic Fury, targeted U.S. forces and allies in the Gulf, causing casualties and infrastructure damage despite the use of expensive interceptors like Patriot missiles. The high cost of these interceptors raises concerns about the sustainability of this defense strategy. Ukraine, a leader in drone warfare since the 2022 Russian invasion, has developed cheaper interceptor drones, costing as little as $1,400, with a high effectiveness rate against Shahed-type drones. The Pentagon and at least one Gulf government are reportedly interested in Ukraine's low-cost drone interceptor technology as a more affordable solution.

On day 14 of the US-Israel conflict (March 13, 2026), tensions escalated as Israel launched heavy strikes on Tehran, Iran, following retaliatory attacks by Iranian allies across Gulf states. Iran's new Supreme Leader issued a warning demanding the closure of US bases in the region to halt further attacks. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil transport, is now closed, causing oil prices to surge. Iran claims control of the strait, banning US- and Israel-linked ships. Civilian casualties in Iran are reported to be over 1,300. Iran has also launched attacks on Gulf countries hosting US military assets, targeting oil tankers and facilities.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on Friday that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is reportedly injured. Hegseth claimed Khamenei's written public address on Thursday indicated fear, injury, and a lack of legitimacy. Hegseth also announced a significant increase in US airstrikes over Iran and Tehran on Friday. Despite Khamenei's defiant statement that the Strait of Hormuz must remain blocked, Hegseth downplayed concerns about its closure. The US pledged to continue escalating attacks against Iran.

According to an AP report from Tehran in March 2026, residents are experiencing rising fear and isolation due to ongoing U.S.-Israeli air strikes. The attacks, occurring without warning, have targeted locations within the city, including residential areas and an oil storage facility. The internet shutdown has further exacerbated the situation, forcing people to rely on personal networks for information about the conflict. The atmosphere in Tehran is tense, with daily life disrupted as evidenced by the near-empty bazaars and the anxiety expressed by residents. The report highlights the human impact of the air campaign on the civilian population.

The global energy crisis, exacerbated by conflict in the Middle East as of March 13, 2026, is creating winners and losers as oil prices surge. The potential closure of strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz threatens global supply chains and raises the risk of inflation in Europe and Asia. The article states that finding alternative energy sources will be difficult if the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran continues. Russia is positioned to benefit significantly from rising oil prices, bolstering its economy despite Western sanctions. The crisis highlights the world's dependence on specific energy routes and the potential for a reshaped global energy landscape.

The US-Israeli war on Iran, beginning in March 2026, has triggered a global energy crisis due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for oil and gas shipments. India, heavily reliant on the Gulf for its energy needs, faces potential shortages as over 80% of its gas and 60% of its oil pass through this strait. The conflict also threatens the $50 billion in remittances sent by approximately nine million Indian expats working in the Gulf states. Rising crude prices and disrupted supplies are already impacting India, with potential closures of businesses and public concerns over LPG shortages. The situation is further complicated by increased shipping risks and attacks on vessels heading to India.

Oil prices have risen above $100 a barrel due to disruptions in global energy supplies amid the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28, 2026. The surge follows Iran's pledge to maintain the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for about one-fifth of global oil supplies. Traffic through the strait has significantly decreased, with only a few vessels passing through daily compared to the pre-war average. The US President has prioritized preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons over concerns about rising oil prices. Asian stock markets have declined following the oil price increase and overnight losses on Wall Street.

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.

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.

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.

The UN Security Council passed a resolution on Wednesday demanding Iran immediately cease all attacks on Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan. The resolution, passed with 13 votes and two abstentions, also condemned Iranian actions obstructing international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows repeated Iranian strikes on Gulf states, which Tehran claims are retaliatory measures for US-Israeli attacks on Iranian sites, including one that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has also targeted commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's ambassador decried the resolution as a misuse of the UN, but Iran states it will halt strikes on neighboring nations.

In a news conference on March 12, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "stronger than ever" amidst its ongoing war with Iran, alongside the United States, which began on February 28. Netanyahu claimed the attacks have severely damaged Iran's nuclear and ballistic projects, killed top nuclear scientists, and inflicted damage on the IRGC and Basij forces. He asserted that the war has prevented Iran from moving its nuclear projects underground. Netanyahu also addressed Iranian protesters, expressing support while emphasizing their role in changing their government. He further stated that the war has enabled Israel to forge new alliances in the region, despite Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf countries.

In a recent press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following joint air strikes with the US. Netanyahu stated that Iran has suffered significant blows to its Revolutionary Guards Corps and Basij paramilitary force since the start of the war. He vowed continued attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon after they retaliated for Israel's killing of the previous Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. When questioned about potential actions against Mojtaba Khamenei and Hezbollah's chief, Netanyahu declined to provide specifics but suggested neither should feel secure. He described the new Supreme Leader as a "puppet of the Revolutionary Guards" who is unable to appear in public.

Israeli security sources have stated that Israel's attack on Iran lacked a clear plan for regime change, with hopes of a popular uprising considered unrealistic. Despite nearly two weeks of bombing raids and the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's leadership remains. The success of the conflict may depend on the fate of 440kg of enriched uranium, enough for multiple nuclear warheads, buried under a mountain. Sources say that if the regime survives and retains the uranium, Iran may pursue nuclear weapons. The US is reportedly considering a high-risk mission to secure the uranium, and pre-war negotiations included proposals for Iran to surrender it.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that the ongoing war in Iran is causing the "largest supply disruption in history" for oil markets due to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This disruption surpasses the crises following the Yom Kippur war and the war in Ukraine. Iran's new supreme leader called for the vital trade artery to remain closed, further escalating the situation. In response, global oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel. The IEA ordered a historic release of 400 million barrels of emergency crude, with the US contributing 172 million barrels from its strategic petroleum reserve. Despite these efforts, oil prices remain volatile, and global stock markets have reacted negatively to the escalating conflict.

The global energy crisis, exacerbated by conflict in the Middle East as of March 12, 2026, is creating winners and losers worldwide. With strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz potentially closed, countries in Europe and Asia face increased supply risks and inflation. The conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran threatens to disrupt established energy routes, making alternatives difficult to secure. Russia is positioned to benefit significantly from rising oil prices, bolstering its economy despite existing Western sanctions. The longer the conflict persists, the more drastically the global energy landscape is expected to change.

Iran has escalated attacks on energy infrastructure and transport in the Middle East, setting ablaze two tankers in Iraqi waters. This action is part of a broader campaign to disrupt energy markets, contributing to oil prices reaching $100 a barrel. Conflicting reports have emerged regarding Iran's stance on allowing India-flagged tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil trade. While one Indian source indicated passage would be permitted, Reuters reported an Iranian source denying this. The attacks and uncertainty surrounding tanker passage are impacting global oil markets.

The article analyzes the ongoing Israeli-American war on Iran, stating that the conflict has become a contest of endurance. The central question is which side can withstand the most pain. The article, dated March 2026, suggests Iran's most effective weapon is its ability to damage the world economy, particularly through rising oil prices. This economic impact represents the United States' biggest vulnerability in continuing the campaign. The analysis highlights the potential for global economic disruption as a key factor in determining the war's outcome.

On March 11, 2026, buildings in Tehran, Iran sustained significant damage following reported US-Israeli strikes. The strikes occurred near Mehrabad International Airport in the capital city. Video shared online shows the extent of the destruction, including damage to buildings and vehicles. The news comes amid ongoing tensions and reports about potential conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. The reason for the strikes was not explicitly stated in the provided article.

On March 11, 2026, Iran launched missiles and drones at Gulf nations, including a U.S. base in Kuwait, marking the 37th wave of attacks amidst an ongoing conflict with the U.S. and Israel. These attacks coincide with a global energy crisis and a ship ablaze in the Strait of Hormuz. The UN Security Council is set to vote on a GCC-sponsored resolution urging Iran to cease attacks on its neighbors. Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE reported intercepting or being targeted by Iranian missiles and drones, with some causing damage and casualties. The IRGC claimed responsibility, stating the attacks targeted U.S. forces' headquarters in the Middle East.

Recent Iranian attacks in the Gulf have expanded beyond traditional oil and gas infrastructure to include data centers, signaling a shift in targeting strategic assets. On March 1st, drone attacks damaged three Amazon Web Services data centers in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. These attacks suggest a deliberate effort to undermine the Gulf's post-oil future, particularly its ambitions in artificial intelligence. The region's AI investments, supported by partnerships and cloud providers, rely on cheap and reliable power, which is now threatened. This new focus on data centers poses a risk to the Gulf's economic diversification efforts.

Published on March 11, 2026, the article "How much a day of war on Iran costs the US" examines the potential financial implications of a hypothetical military conflict between the United States and Iran. The article, presented "By the Numbers," likely breaks down the estimated daily expenses associated with such a war. It appears within a larger news context covering US-Israel relations and Iran, including topics like Iran's weapons capabilities and key figures such as Mojtaba Khamenei. The article aims to provide readers with a factual understanding of the economic burden a war with Iran could place on the United States.

In March 2026, a woman was killed in Bahrain during an Iranian attack, part of escalating tensions in the Gulf region. Several Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE, intercepted Iranian missiles and drones. Bahrain reported intercepting a large number of projectiles, while Saudi Arabia and Kuwait also downed drones. The attacks, which included strikes on energy infrastructure, occurred amid a US-Israeli war on Iran. US President Trump threatened increased attacks on Iran if it attempts to close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route. These events have led to rising oil prices and regional instability.

On March 10, 2026, US President Donald Trump stated that the US and Israel are nearing their war objectives in Iran and that the conflict could end soon. This announcement comes as US and Israeli forces continue their bombardment of Iran. Simultaneously, large gatherings have occurred throughout Iran in support of the newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. The ongoing conflict involves the US, Israel, and Iran, with the US and Israel conducting attacks while Iranians rally in support of their new leader. The reasons behind the conflict and the specific objectives of the US and Israel were not detailed in this report.

The article reports on the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, highlighting the Trump administration's inconsistent messaging regarding the war's timeline and objectives. Over the past 10 days, President Trump has given conflicting statements about the war's progress, potential end, and ultimate goals, causing market fluctuations. Initially, Trump suggested a swift conclusion, even hinting at a possible wrap-up, but later walked back those comments, indicating a willingness to intensify strikes if Iran continued to threaten oil tankers. He also stated the goal was to prevent Iran from developing weapons targeting the US, Israel, or allies. The mixed messages have created uncertainty surrounding the conflict's future and potential political ramifications for the Trump administration.

Iranian missile and drone attacks have recently targeted Gulf nations, disrupting oil production and supply, and prompting widespread condemnation. The attacks, which began around February 28, 2026, are reportedly in retaliation for US and Israeli actions against Iran. Bahrain's state oil company, Bapco, declared force majeure after its refinery was struck, while Saudi Arabia intercepted drones headed for its Shaybah oilfield. The UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait also reported missile attacks, resulting in injuries and fatalities in some areas. Gulf airspace has been shut down, and Qatar has urged de-escalation from all parties involved in the conflict.

The US and Israel launched airstrikes on targets across Iran on Monday, marking an escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict, now in its second week. These strikes coincided with Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, US bases in the Middle East, and Gulf energy infrastructure. The attacks and counter-attacks occurred as large crowds gathered in Tehran to support Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's newly appointed supreme leader. The reason for the strikes is the ongoing conflict between the involved nations. The strikes and public support for the new leader signal a deepening crisis in the region.

The U.S. and Israel continued their military campaign against Iran as of March 7-8, 2026, resulting in attacks on Tehran, Iran, and airstrikes in Sir al-Gharbiyeh village in south Lebanon. The conflict has led to casualties, including the death of a U.S. Army Reserve soldier in Kuwait. The remains of the soldier were returned to the U.S. at Dover Air Force Base. Iran has appointed a new commander for its war strategy and named a son of its late supreme leader as his successor, a move criticized by U.S. President Donald Trump. The Revolutionary Guard has pledged allegiance to the new commander. The ongoing conflict has also caused oil prices to surge above $100 a barrel.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed Iran's new Supreme Leader on Sunday, March 9, 2026, by the Assembly of Experts. The appointment of Khamenei, a mid-ranking religious scholar with ties to the IRGC, signals continuity amid the ongoing US-Israeli war. Support for Khamenei's leadership came swiftly from within Iran's political and security establishment, as well as from Oman and Iraq. Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said sent congratulations, while Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani expressed confidence in Khamenei's ability to manage the current challenges. The US and Israel have responded to the appointment with threats.

Following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack, Mojtaba Khamenei has been named the new Supreme Leader of Iran in March 2026. In Kano, northern Nigeria, Shia Muslims gathered to mourn the late leader, viewing his death as the silencing of a spiritual teacher and a blow to the "continuation of his father's resistance." Nigerian Shias see their faith as intertwined with Iran's Shia community. The elder Khamenei, who became Supreme Leader in 1989, was seen as a leader of oppressed people globally due to Iran's involvement in issues like Gaza and Palestine. His death has stirred deep emotions among Nigeria's Shia minority.

On March 9, 2026, global oil prices surged past $100 a barrel, exceeding a 20% increase, due to the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Brent crude reached over $114 a barrel before settling around $107.50. The conflict, which began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, has disrupted global energy supplies, with Iran halting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. In response, Iraq, the UAE, and Kuwait, major OPEC producers, have cut production. US President Trump dismissed concerns, predicting a rapid price drop after the conflict ends, while the Energy Secretary called any price increases temporary.

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.

A projectile struck a residential area in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia on Sunday, killing two foreign nationals (one Indian and one Bangladeshi) and injuring twelve others. Saudi authorities reported the incident, attributing it to an unspecified "military projectile," while Iran's IRGC claimed responsibility, stating they targeted radar systems in the Al-Kharj governorate, home to the Prince Sultan airbase. This attack is part of a series of Iranian counterattacks on Gulf nations hosting US military assets, following Israeli strikes on Iranian oil facilities. Other attacks on Sunday included intercepted drones in Riyadh, damage to fuel tanks at Kuwait's international airport, and damage to a water desalination plant in Bahrain. The escalating conflict raises concerns for the safety of the diverse international workforce across the Gulf.

The US-Israel war on Iran has entered its second week, prompting international concern. US President Trump claims Iran is being "decimated" but has not ruled out deploying troops, while China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the war. Iran claims it can sustain the conflict for at least six more months, despite Israeli strikes on Tehran fuel storage complexes. An Israeli strike on Beirut, Lebanon, resulted in casualties. The conflict continues to escalate, with regional implications and international calls for de-escalation.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on March 8, 2026, that Iran will not yield to pressure from the United States and Israel. This announcement comes as tensions between Iran and these nations continue to rise. Pezeshkian's statement underscores Iran's resolve to maintain its position despite external pressures. The context of the statement is the ongoing geopolitical friction involving Iran, the US, and Israel. The location of the announcement was within Iran, as Pezeshkian is the Iranian President.

The article suggests that Russia is observing the escalating conflict involving Iran, anticipating potential long-term benefits. Events depicted in the article include a meeting between the Iranian President and Vladimir Putin in Moscow in January 2025. The article also references a U.S.-Israeli military attack in Tehran in March 2026, as well as reports of Iranian strikes in Dubai around the same time. The death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is also mentioned as occurring in early March 2026. Russia's strategy appears to be one of non-intervention, possibly calculating that the conflict will ultimately strengthen its geopolitical position.

Global oil prices have surpassed $100 a barrel for the first time since 2022, reaching $108.10 for Brent crude and $108.72 for WTI crude as of Monday. The surge follows escalating military aggression in the Middle East, specifically the US-Israeli war on Iran, which has disrupted oil supplies and removed 20 million barrels per day from the market. Kuwait's national oil company has already announced precautionary cuts to its crude oil production. Experts attribute the price increase to the ongoing conflict and the US administration's stance, with concerns that continued disruption could lead to further price increases and production shutdowns across Gulf energy exporters. Oil prices have risen by two-thirds since the start of the year.

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.

In March 2026, a war between Iran, Israel, and the United States entered its second week, raising concerns about regional spillover. The conflict, which began with strikes on Tehran, has expanded to neighboring countries targeted by Iranian missiles and drones, with attacks reaching beyond the immediate region. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has apologized to Gulf states and pledged to limit future attacks. Experts are debating the likelihood of further escalation given the lack of indication that Israel and the US will end the war. The potential for new fronts opening up due to attacks on countries beyond the region is also being discussed.

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.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently apologized for past Iranian strikes targeting neighboring Gulf states. This action occurred amidst ongoing tensions in the region. However, Pezeshkian later retracted his apology following criticism from other Iranian leaders. Despite the initial apology and subsequent reversal, Iran has continued its attacks, highlighting potential rifts within the Iranian leadership regarding foreign policy and regional relations. The situation underscores the complex dynamics and ongoing conflicts involving Iran and its Gulf neighbors.