Iran Attacks Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Riyadh After US-Israel Strikes
Tensions across the Middle East escalated dramatically on February 28, 2026, as Iran launched a coordinated missile retaliation targeting US military installations across the Gulf region. The strikes came hours after joint US-Israel military operations inside Iran.
Missile launches were reported across multiple countries hosting US military assets. Facilities in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates were among the targets. Residents across Gulf cities reported loud explosions, with many believed to be air defense interceptions.
In the United Arab Emirates, authorities confirmed that at least one person was killed in Abu Dhabi following missile interceptions. Officials condemned the attack as a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and warned of the right to respond.
Bahrain confirmed that a facility associated with the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters was struck during the missile barrage. In Qatar, air defense systems intercepted incoming missiles, prompting authorities to suspend air navigation and warn citizens to avoid debris. Kuwait and Jordan also confirmed successful interceptions within their airspace.
Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the attacks and expressed solidarity with the affected Gulf states, warning of serious consequences if violations continue.
The escalating conflict triggered widespread disruption across the region. Iran, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq temporarily closed their airspace, forcing airlines to divert flights and causing major travel disruptions. Flights from India and other countries were rerouted as a precaution.
US embassies across the Middle East issued urgent shelter-in-place advisories, urging American citizens to remain indoors and review emergency security procedures amid fears of further strikes.
Military analysts note that Iran appears to have targeted US assets across multiple countries simultaneously, signaling an attempt to demonstrate regional reach and deterrence capability. It remains unclear in some areas whether explosions were caused by interceptions or direct impacts.
The retaliatory strikes significantly heighten fears of a wider regional conflict, with global leaders urging restraint. Casualty figures and damage assessments are still emerging as the situation continues to evolve.
