Iran strikes continue on Gulf, defying peace vows
What's the story
Kuwait's national oil company has announced a "precautionary" cut to its crude production after fuel tanks at the country's airport were targeted. Kuwait's military responded to "a wave of hostile drones that penetrated the country's airspace." The attack was described as "a direct targeting of vital infrastructure." According to an official statement, "Some civilian facilities were also damaged by debris from interception operations." On Saturday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized to neighbors for the attacks.
Drone defense
Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed 15 drones
Pezeshkian had said that Iran will not target its neighbors unless attacked first. He added, "I apologise to the neighbouring countries. We have no intention of invading other countries." In related news, Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed 15 drones. The attacks targeted several areas, including the diplomatic quarter in Riyadh. This comes amid Kuwait's military responding to hostile drones that penetrated its airspace.
Regional tensions
Qatar intercepted most missiles, UAE declares 'period of war'
Qatar's defense ministry reported that the country was targeted by 10 ballistic missiles and two cruise missiles from Iran. Most were intercepted, causing no casualties. Meanwhile, United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan declared a "a period of war" in a rare televised address, promising that the Emirates would emerge stronger from it.
Ongoing conflict
Iran's judiciary chief vows strikes will continue
The UAE's defense ministry claims to have detected 221 ballistic missiles and over 1,300 drones since February 28. Iran's judiciary chief vowed that strikes would continue on sites in Gulf countries which were "at the disposal of the enemy." Pezeshkian also outrightly rejected US President Donald Trump's demands for surrender. "They will take their dreams of us surrendering unconditionally to the grave," he said.
Casualties and damage
Bahrain intercepts over 200 missiles, drones
Bahrain has intercepted 92 missiles and 151 drones since the conflict began. The capital Manama has been witnessing intermittent explosions daily. In Beirut, a hotel strike killed four people and injured 10. Eight others were killed in strikes on over 20 Lebanese towns and villages, according to the health ministry.
Targeted strike
Israel confirms strike in Beirut
The Israeli military confirmed a "precise strike" in Beirut aimed at Iranian Revolutionary Guards commanders operating in Lebanon. Qatar's defense ministry said Iran fired a dozen missiles at the country, but six ballistic missiles and two cruise missiles were intercepted. Two ballistic missiles fell into territorial waters, while two landed in an "uninhabited area."