As the Operation Epic Fury launched by the US military entered its fourth day, the situation in the Middle East has deteriorated rapidly. On Tuesday (March 3), the US State Department issued an emergency security alert for the eastern oil hub of Dhahran in Saudi Arabia, warning of imminent missile and drone attacks in the region. Meanwhile, sources revealed that facing continuous retaliatory strikes from Iran, several Gulf Arab countries are considering changing their stance and directly participating in airstrikes against Iran.
The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia issued a statement on Tuesday urging American citizens in Dhahran to evacuate immediately. The statement emphasized the imminent threat of missile and drone attacks over Dhahran. It advised citizens not to go to the consulate, seek shelter in their residences, stay on the lowest floor of buildings, and away from windows.
The warning comes against the backdrop of Iran escalating retaliatory attacks against civilians and infrastructure in the Gulf region. Reports indicate that the Ras Tanura refinery in Saudi Arabia was partially shut down following an attack on Monday, while the port city of Dammam near Dhahran also faces severe threats.
According to Fox News citing senior official sources in the Gulf region, due to repeated Iranian attacks on civilian centers and energy facilities, the Gulf Arab countries’ air forces may soon join in strikes against Iran. The sources stated, “Iran has crossed the red line.”
Retired US General Jack Keane disclosed in an interview that three Gulf countries are preparing for combat, with one already taking action, while the other two are in final coordination with US Central Command (CENTCOM).
Keane stated that the involvement of these countries signifies a strategic shift in the region from mere defensive interception to cooperative offensive operations, targeting designated objectives within Iran.
With the authorization from President Trump, Operation Epic Fury has carried out bombings on over 2,000 targets within Iran. Despite Iran suffering heavy losses previously, including the death of Supreme Leader Khamenei in the attacks and multiple warships being sunk.
The current conflict has triggered a severe energy crisis. With oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz disrupted, global oil prices have surged by 9%.
In response to the escalating threat, the US has ordered non-essential diplomatic personnel to evacuate Bahrain, Jordan, and Iraq, and has closed embassies in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
France has deployed Rafale fighter jets over the UAE to protect its bases, and the UK is using bases in Cyprus to support related military operations.
In response to the news of Gulf countries potentially entering the conflict, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) had previously issued a statement condemning Iran’s “aggressive behavior” and stating that they will take all necessary measures to maintain regional security.