On Saturday, the United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and create an opportunity for the Iranian people to take over the current regime. In response, Iran carried out unprecedented retaliatory attacks against Israel and several Arab countries with US military bases, prompting condemnation from countries like Saudi Arabia.
During Iran’s retaliatory attacks, explosions were heard in the Gulf Arab countries with oil production. These countries reported intercepting Iranian missiles. Reports of explosions were heard in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar, with flight operations suspended at all airports in Dubai.
Israel, a key target of Iran’s retaliation, has declared a state of emergency. Jordan, bordering Israel, reported that its armed forces shot down two ballistic missiles aimed at its territory.
Jordan’s Minister of Communications and official spokesperson Mohammad Momani stated in a announcement to Petra news agency that fragments were scattered across various locations in Jordan. The relevant authorities have taken necessary measures to address the situation, emphasizing that maintaining national security and the welfare of the people is Jordan’s top priority.
Kuwait’s state news agency reported that Kuwaiti air defense forces successfully repelled the “despicable Iranian attack” that occurred earlier that day. A statement from the Foreign Ministry reaffirmed Kuwait’s right to self-defense. Meanwhile, Kuwait Airways announced a temporary halt to all incoming and outgoing flights.
Following Iran’s attack on Qatari territory, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Qatar retains all rights to self-defense. The Qatari Ministry of Defense reported successfully thwarting multiple attacks on Qatari territory after issuing multiple warnings.
In a statement, Qatar announced that it will respond in accordance with international law and to defend its sovereignty and national security in a proportionate manner. The attacks by Iran on Qatari territory violate the principles of good neighborliness and are deemed unacceptable under any pretext or rationale.
Qatar also noted that the country faced a third wave of missile attacks from Iran, all of which were intercepted. Authorities reported no casualties or property damage in residential areas.
The Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar is the largest US air combat center in the Middle East and serves as the forward headquarters for US Central Command.
Saudi Arabia stated that Iran attacked its capital Riyadh and eastern regions. Saudi Arabia released a statement on social media strongly condemning Iran’s aggression and attacks on multiple Arab countries.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemns in the strongest terms Iran’s treacherous aggression and blatant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan,” the statement read. “Saudi Arabia reiterates its full support for these brotherly countries and is willing to use all capabilities to assist in any measures they take. Saudi Arabia also warns that continued violations of sovereignty and international law will have serious consequences.”