Air raid sirens wailed across Tel Aviv on Monday as explosions were reported from multiple Gulf capitals following a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks launched by Iran, according to statements issued by the Israel Defense Forces.
Missiles were intercepted over Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as Iran’s retaliatory campaign entered its third day. In Iraq, air defence systems reportedly intercepted at least two drones near Erbil airport, which hosts US-led coalition troops and a major American consulate complex.
Blasts were also reported from Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi and Manama within minutes of the latest strikes. Airports, residential zones and strategic infrastructure across the Gulf region have been impacted since the start of the US-Israel campaign on Saturday that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and several senior officials.
In Bahrain, drones struck Manama airport on Sunday, causing minor damage. In the United Arab Emirates, debris from intercepted drones injured two persons in residential areas of Dubai. Authorities in Abu Dhabi confirmed casualties following what they described as an incident at the airport, while additional deaths were reported due to falling debris earlier in the day. Dubai International Airport and Kuwait International Airport were also hit, triggering significant disruption to global air traffic.
Saudi authorities said missiles targeting Riyadh’s international airport and the Prince Sultan Airbase were intercepted. In Qatar, officials stated that 65 missiles and 12 drones were launched, most of which were neutralised, though eight people sustained injuries. Oman’s port of Duqm was also targeted by drones.
The Gulf Cooperation Council convened an emergency meeting and called for immediate cessation of hostilities, warning that instability in the Gulf threatens global economic stability. The United States and several Arab nations issued a joint condemnation of attacks on civilian and non combatant territories.
Iran’s leadership signalled continued resistance, with senior official Ali Larijani stating that negotiations with Washington were not under consideration. US President Donald Trump indicated openness to dialogue with Iran’s new leadership.
As strikes and counter strikes continue, uncertainty looms over the region’s political and security landscape. [KNT]
