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CAIRO (AP) — Arab Gulf states reported missile and drone attacks on Sunday, coinciding with Iran's threats to expand its military campaign as the conflict
in the Middle East progresses into its third week. The United States and Israel targeted Iranian nuclear and military sites on February 28, prompting Iran to retaliate against both Israel and neighboring Gulf nations. The ongoing war has disrupted global air travel, impacted oil exports from the region, and contributed to rising fuel prices worldwide.
Gulf States Respond to Threats
Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates alerted residents on Sunday about efforts to intercept incoming projectiles. This warning followed Iran's call for the evacuation of three major UAE ports, marking a significant escalation in threats against non-U.S. assets in the region.Iran accused the U.S. of using UAE locations, specifically Ras Al Khaimah and an area near Dubai, to launch attacks on Kharg Island, which is vital for Iran's oil exports. The UAE and other Gulf nations hosting U.S. military bases have denied any involvement in facilitating such operations against Iran.
Casualties and Humanitarian Impact
Iranian attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least a dozen civilians in Gulf states, primarily migrant workers. The International Committee for the Red Cross reported over 1,300 fatalities in Iran, while Israeli officials noted that 12 individuals died due to Iranian missile strikes.Since the onset of the conflict, at least 13 U.S. military personnel have lost their lives, including seven in combat and six in a plane crash over Iraq last week.
International Responses and Ongoing Tensions
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hopes that allies would deploy warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid rising global concerns about oil supply and prices. In response, Britain indicated discussions with allies regarding options to ensure safe shipping in the region.Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed to those attacking Iran and its allies. He also criticized Trump's call for military support from other nations as desperate.
U.S. Military Casualties and Embassy Security
The U.S. Department of Defense identified six service members who died in a military aircraft crash while supporting operations against Iran. The crash occurred in western Iraq and followed an incident involving two aircraft in friendly airspace.Additionally, a missile struck a helipad within the U.S. Embassy compound in Baghdad late Saturday, although no group immediately claimed responsibility. The State Department has urged U.S. citizens in Iraq to leave immediately, warning of potential targeting by Iranian-aligned militia groups.
