Tensions in the Middle East intensified after the United States carried out a new series of attacks on 140 Iranian sites on Sunday. This followed Iran’s decision to close the Strait of Hormuz indefinitely. Iran responded by firing missiles toward Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, raising fears of wider conflict.
Gulf countries activated air defenses, restricted airspace and issued alerts over concerns that fighting could disrupt vital shipping routes.
The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting a missile threat but gave no further details on its source. Kuwait said its forces engaged hostile objects in its airspace and noted unverified Iranian claims of drone strikes on American facilities there.
Bahrain activated warning sirens nationwide after receiving alerts. Iran asserted it hit US communications equipment in the country, which hosts the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, though no confirmation came from local or American officials.
In Qatar, residents heard explosions and received security messages. Iran claimed missile strikes on Al Udeid Air Base, targeting maintenance and command facilities, but US and Qatari authorities did not verify the reports.
Iran also stated it launched ballistic missiles at a US base in Jordan, alleging damage to drone hangars, without independent confirmation.
US Central Command confirmed completing a third round of operations against Iranian military locations, including missile sites, naval assets and radar installations, using precision weapons from aircraft, drones and ships.
Iran reported multiple explosions in several provinces and activated air defenses, though no casualties were immediately reported. It further claimed attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and announced the waterway’s closure.
