In the early hours of March 12, countries in the Gulf region experienced a series of drone and missile strikes attributed to Iran, targeting oil facilities and tankers. While regional armed forces managed to intercept many of these attacks, there were reports of casualties and fires resulting from the assaults.
According to reports from CNN, the strikes were concentrated on oil infrastructure and vessels in the Persian Gulf. Footage from Iraq showed smoke rising over Erbil International Airport in the Kurdistan region, indicating the widespread nature of the conflict.
Two foreign oil tankers were attacked, leading to at least one confirmed fatality, with 38 individuals rescued. Iranian sources claimed that the tankers were destroyed by underwater drone strikes.
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Defense reported that over 20 drones were intercepted and destroyed in the eastern regions of the country, where significant oil reserves are located. Bahrain confirmed attacks on fuel storage tanks in the Muharraq province, advising residents in four nearby cities to stay indoors and close windows due to smoke and fire.
The United Arab Emirates also reported active engagement of its air defense systems against missile and drone threats from Iran. In one incident, a drone crashed near the Creek harbor, but the fire was quickly contained.
Kuwait activated its air defense systems in response to the ongoing threats from Iranian missiles and drones. Authorities in the region continue to urge residents to adhere to safety protocols as tensions remain high.
Military Operations Involving Israel and the U.S.
On February 28, Israel conducted an airstrike on Tehran, prompting a strong response from the U.S. President Donald Trump announced the initiation of a “major military operation” against Iran, aimed at eliminating perceived threats from the Iranian regime. He accused Iranian authorities of financing and training militant groups in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Hamas in Palestine. The stated objectives of this military campaign include dismantling Iran’s missile industry and naval capabilities to prevent further destabilization.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that it had launched missiles and drones toward Israel, as well as targeting U.S. military bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
In light of these developments, French President Emmanuel Macron called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. The European Union reiterated its commitment to ensuring regional security and stability in the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need to provide Iranians with an opportunity to rid themselves of a “terrorist regime” and to secure safety for all nations affected by attacks from Iran.
On March 1, the IRGC announced the commencement of what it termed the “most destructive offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic” against Israel and U.S. military bases. Trump warned the Iranian regime to abandon these plans, threatening a “very strong response.” On March 2, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the next phase of the military operation would be even more devastating.
By March 6, Trump highlighted the necessity for a complete change in Iran’s leadership, stating he had several candidates in mind for a “good leader.”
The recent escalation of attacks by Iran on Gulf nations marks a significant increase in regional tensions, with military operations involving the U.S. and Israel further complicating the situation. As various nations respond to these threats, the potential for broader conflict looms.
Source: CNN