Gulf on edge: Iran accused of fresh missile attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain; what comes next?
Kuwait City: Kuwait on Saturday strongly condemned what it described as a fresh Iranian missile attack, calling it a direct threat to the lives of citizens and residents.
In a statement, Kuwait's Foreign Ministry said the attack represented a serious violation of the country's sovereignty and warned that such actions marked a dangerous escalation in an already volatile region.
The ministry stressed that Kuwait would continue to monitor developments closely while coordinating with regional and international partners on security matters.
Bahrain reports interception of missiles
Neighbouring Bahrain also accused Iran of targeting its territory and Kuwaiti airspace.
According to Bahrain's Foreign Ministry, the two Gulf states successfully intercepted seven missiles allegedly fired by Iran. Bahrain described the attacks as a blatant act of aggression and a violation of the sovereignty of both countries.
The kingdom, which hosts the United States Fifth Fleet, condemned the strikes and reiterated its commitment to regional security and stability.
Rising tensions across the Gulf
The latest exchange highlights growing instability in the Gulf region as tensions between Iran and its regional rivals continue to intensify.
The reported missile attacks come amid wider security concerns across the Middle East, where several conflicts and military confrontations have raised fears of a broader regional escalation.
Security analysts have warned that any direct confrontation involving Gulf states could have significant implications for regional stability, energy markets and international shipping routes.
Lebanon violence adds to regional uncertainty
The developments coincided with renewed violence in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed nine people, including three Lebanese military personnel, despite a recently announced ceasefire arrangement.
The Lebanese army accused Israel of undermining efforts to restore stability and achieve a lasting ceasefire in southern Lebanon.
Iran criticises U.S. visa decisions
Separately, Iran criticised the United States over visa restrictions affecting members of its delegation attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Iranian officials accused Washington of discriminatory treatment after visas were reportedly denied to several administrative and technical staff members connected to the national football team, despite players receiving permission to travel.
The dispute adds another layer of tension to already strained relations between Tehran and Washington.