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3. Gulf States Brace as Iran Strikes Continue; UAE and Qatar Report Interceptions

The ongoing conflict triggered by coordinated U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran is expanding more and more across the Gulf, with multiple regional capitals reporting renewed Iranian missile and drone activity. Gulf states have responded with defensive operations and political warnings, raising fears of a wider confrontation.

Iran had announced early Sunday its intention to target U.S. military bases across the region and has already launched attacks on several locations in recent days as part of its declared retaliatory campaign.

Fresh blasts were heard across Dubai, Doha, and Manama on early Sunday.

UAE Signals Possible “Firm Position” Amid Continued Threats

The United Arab Emirates’ Minister of State for International Cooperation warned Sunday on CNN that Abu Dhabi may adopt a more assertive stance if Iran persists in launching ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles at Gulf territories. The statement reflects growing concern among Gulf governments about repeated incursions into their airspace and the risk of civilian casualties.

While the UAE has not yet signaled a direct offensive response, the public declaration underscores a shift from defensive postures toward potential diplomatic or military measures if threats continue.

Qatar Confirms Air Defenses Engage Iranian Attack Waves

Qatar’s Ministry of Defense said on Sunday its fighter aircraft actively responded to aerial attacks involving missiles and drones launched from Iranian territory. According to Doha’s official statement, its air defenses successfully engaged multiple threats before they could reach populated areas.

The ministry stressed that the state’s elevated preparedness and coordination among defense units prevented any impacts on Qatari soil. It reiterated that Qatar reserves the right to respond under international law if such attacks persist. 

Witnesses reported hearing powerful explosions in Doha and Manama on Sunday morning for the second consecutive day, following renewed Iranian strikes targeting Gulf states.

In neighboring Bahrain, authorities confirmed that fragments from intercepted missiles fell in parts of the country, including near sensitive areas, after Gulf air defenses engaged Iranian projectiles.

Saudi Arabia Warns of Regional Consequences

Saudi Arabia issued a warning Sunday over what it described as repeated violations of regional sovereignty.

In a statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs cautioned against “the consequences of Iran’s continued violations of state sovereignty in a manner that undermines the security and stability of the region.” The statement stopped short of announcing direct military involvement but underscored Riyadh’s growing concern that the expanding missile exchanges could destabilize Gulf security architecture.

The language reflects Saudi Arabia’s position as unwilling to tolerate attacks that threaten Gulf airspace or strategic infrastructure.

Broader Regional Defensive Measures

The UAE’s air defenses said they have dealt with dozens of ballistic missiles and unmanned platforms launched from Iran, showcasing advanced radar tracking and interception capabilities.

Officials in Kuwait and other Gulf states have likewise reported coordinated defensive actions, asserting that their forces engaged threats in airspace before they could harm civilians or infrastructure.

Despite repeated interceptions, debris from defensive operations continues to pose risks in urban areas, adding to regional unease.

Regional Political Reactions and Security Postures

Gulf leadership has strongly condemned Iran’s strikes as violations of sovereignty and international law. Several governments have reaffirmed their commitment to security cooperation and preparedness.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has offered its support to fellow Gulf states affected by Iranian missile activity, emphasizing that any prolonged assault on the region could provoke broader responses from defense alliances.