What Happened
In the United Arab Emirates, loud explosions were reported in and around Abu Dhabi as air defenses responded to incoming threats. Reuters correspondents and witnesses previously reported hearing multiple powerful booms across the capital, including in areas near Al Dhafra and Bateen. Al Dhafra Air Base, located near Abu Dhabi, hosts U.S. military operations and has been targeted during the conflict. However, individual reports about specific missiles striking the installation should be distinguished from confirmed damage assessments, which can take time to establish during an active attack.
The UAE has also faced damage to critical infrastructure during the conflict. Reuters reported in September that Iranian attacks had damaged technology infrastructure in the UAE and Bahrain, prompting officials to reconsider how sensitive facilities are protected against missile and drone threats.
Bahrain has also been repeatedly affected by the fighting. The country hosts the headquarters of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, making facilities around Manama strategically important to American operations in the region. Iran has claimed attacks against U.S. military facilities in Bahrain, including locations around Jufair and Sheikh Isa. During previous attacks, Bahraini authorities activated warning sirens and instructed residents to move to safe locations. Iranian forces have also claimed strikes against military infrastructure, although individual claims have not always been independently verified.
Qatar has likewise faced missile and drone threats. Al Udeid Air Base, which serves as a major U.S. military installation and regional command hub, has been among the locations threatened during the conflict. Iranian forces have claimed attacks involving U.S. military assets in Qatar, while Qatari defenses have intercepted incoming projectiles.
Kuwait has experienced repeated Iranian attacks directed toward facilities used by U.S. forces. During one earlier wave, Kuwaiti authorities reported that air defenses intercepted ballistic and cruise missiles as well as drones. Officials urged residents to remain cautious as defensive systems responded to incoming threats.
The Reaction
The continuing attacks have raised concerns about the broader security of Gulf states and the potential impact on regional transportation, energy infrastructure and commercial shipping. The Strait of Hormuz remains particularly important. The waterway carries a substantial share of global energy shipments, and military activity around the strait has already disrupted maritime traffic and increased concerns about supplies and prices. Reuters has reported that shipping through the waterway has fallen sharply during the conflict.
What This Means
With fighting continuing and both Washington and Tehran maintaining competing military and diplomatic positions, Gulf governments remain on heightened alert. Further developments are expected as officials assess damage, monitor additional missile and drone threats, and work to protect civilian populations and critical infrastructure.
