Several Gulf countries have reported fresh attacks as the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran enters its fifth week, raising fears of wider regional instability.
In the United Arab Emirates, authorities confirmed that an Iranian strike hit a major aluminium facility in Abu Dhabi, injuring several people and causing significant damage. The plant is operated by Emirates Global Aluminium, one of the region’s key industrial players.
In Bahrain, Aluminium Bahrain reported that two workers were wounded after a similar attack targeted one of the world’s largest aluminium smelting sites.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it carried out the strikes using drones and missiles, describing them as retaliation for US and Israeli attacks on Iranian industrial infrastructure. Tehran has recently accused Israel of targeting critical steel production facilities within its territory.
Elsewhere in the region, Oman said it is investigating a drone strike at the southern port of Salalah, which reportedly injured a foreign worker. Authorities described the incident as an “unprovoked attack,” though no group has claimed responsibility.
In Kuwait, officials reported damage to the radar system at the country’s international airport following a drone assault involving multiple unmanned aircraft.
The situation has become more complex with the involvement of Yemen’s Houthi movement, which is backed by Iran. The group announced it had launched missiles targeting Israeli military sites, further escalating tensions and raising concerns about disruptions to shipping routes in the Red Sea.
Energy markets remain on edge as Iran continues to restrict access to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil and gas supplies. Any expansion of attacks to maritime routes could push energy prices even higher.
Meanwhile, Israeli operations have extended into Lebanon, where multiple casualties have been reported. According to the World Health Organization, several paramedics were killed in southern Lebanon within a 24-hour period, contributing to a rising toll among healthcare workers.
As the conflict deepens, Gulf states are increasingly concerned about the economic and security consequences, with many calling for a role in any future diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation.
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