Middle East Tensions Escalate as Iran, Israel, US Exchange Strikes; Gulf States on High Alert

Middle East Tensions Escalate as Iran, Israel, US Exchange Strikes; Gulf States on High Alert

Regional tensions surged dramatically after Iran’s Supreme National Security Council condemned what it described as a “brutal air operation” allegedly carried out by the United States and Israel. In a strongly worded statement, the council said the attacks took place during ongoing negotiations and rejected any suggestion that military pressure would force Iran to concede to foreign demands.

Flights Suspended Across Region

Amid the escalating security situation, Turkish Airlines announced the suspension of flights to several destinations, including Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran and Jordan. The airline cited safety concerns as regional airspace restrictions expanded.

Explosions Reported in UAE

Multiple explosions were reported in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, following an earlier missile incident in the UAE capital. Authorities had already closed Abu Dhabi’s airspace after Iranian ballistic missiles were intercepted. Emirati officials confirmed that debris from the intercepted missiles fell in a residential area, causing material damage and killing one Asian national.

The UAE’s defence ministry strongly condemned the attack, calling it a violation of sovereignty and international law, and declared it “reserves its full right” to respond to the escalation. Officials said the country remains fully prepared to counter further threats.

Iran Claims Strikes on Gulf Military Bases

According to Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency, Tehran targeted several military installations across the Gulf region. The reported sites include Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al-Salem Air Base, Al-Dhafra Air Base, and the US Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain.

Bahrain described the strikes as “treacherous attacks” and said they constituted a blatant violation of its sovereignty and security.

EU Calls Situation ‘Perilous’

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that developments across the Middle East are “perilous” and urged all sides to protect civilians and uphold international law. She said she had spoken with Gideon Saar and other regional officials, while coordinating with Arab partners to pursue diplomatic efforts.

Kallas added that EU consular networks are facilitating departures for European citizens, with non-essential personnel being withdrawn from parts of the region.

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