Iran launches missile and drone attacks on Gulf nations amid rising oil prices

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have reported attacks on their territories, prompting residents to take precautions. In Bahrain, authorities told residents to stay indoors and close windows after an attack on fuel tanks in Muharraq Governorate. The country hosts the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet and has been a target of attacks amid the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence reported intercepting drones headed towards the Shaybah oilfield and the embassies district. The country had previously intercepted seven drones targeting the oilfield on Wednesday. Kuwait also reported an attack on its territory, resulting in two people being wounded by a drone that hit a residential building.

The United Arab Emirates said its air defence was responding to a missile threat. A container ship was attacked approximately 35 nautical miles north of Jebel Ali in the UAE. In Jordan, sirens were heard in all cities due to the ongoing conflict.

The US-Israel war on Iran has resulted in significant damage and disruption to global energy markets. Brent crude prices have increased by over 38 percent compared to pre-war levels. The conflict has prompted plans for a record release of strategic oil reserves to mitigate fuel shortages.

In Iraq, attacks on two crude oil tankers at the Umm Qasr port in Basra province have led to the suspension of all oil terminal operations. Rescuers recovered one body and assisted 38 others after the attack. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway carrying a significant portion of global oil and gas, has effectively stopped traffic due to Iran’s pledge not to export oil to the US, Israel, and its partners as long as the war on Tehran continues.

Source: Al Jazeera