New Delhi / Dubai: War fears are escalating in the Middle East following a joint airstrike by the United States and Israel on Iran. In retaliation to the US-Israeli offensive, explosions have been reported across Gulf countries including the UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain following a wave of Iranian missile strikes. Iran reportedly targeted major American military bases stationed in the Gulf region.+1
Key Highlights:
- One Civilian Killed in the UAE: Residents reported hearing loud explosions in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. While the UAE’s air defense systems successfully intercepted the incoming Iranian missiles, falling debris struck a residential area, resulting in the death of an Asian civilian in Abu Dhabi, the UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed.+1
- Qatar Intercepts Missiles: Qatar announced that its air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed Iranian missiles aimed at Doha. No casualties or major damages have been reported in the country so far.
- US Military Bases Targeted: Missile strikes were directed at the headquarters of the US Navy’s 5th Fleet in Manama, Bahrain. The Al Dhafra Air Base in Abu Dhabi and the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar were also reportedly among Iran’s primary targets.+1
- Saudi Arabia Condemns the Action: Explosions were also reported in the Saudi capital of Riyadh. Describing Iran’s actions as a “treacherous attack,” Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the strikes and warned that Tehran would face serious consequences.+1
The initial airstrikes by the US and Israel began early Saturday morning, reportedly hitting several targets, including areas near the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran launched its heavy counter-offensive shortly after.
As the conflict intensifies, high-level security alerts have been issued across the entire Gulf region. Several nations, including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, have closed their airspace. Consequently, numerous international flights—including several services to and from India—have been canceled or diverted. The rapidly deteriorating situation points to the growing risk of a full-scale war in the Middle East
