Gulf States Intercept Massive Wave of Iranian Missiles and Drones

Air defenses across the Gulf intercepted a massive series of aerial attacks launched by Iran between March 6 and March 7, 2026. These strikes, described as retaliatory measures following a US-Israeli military campaign that killed Iranian officials including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, targeted military infrastructure and energy sites.

In Kuwait, the Ministry of Defense neutralized 212 ballistic missiles and 394 drones. While initially reporting no damage, spokesperson Colonel Saud Al Atwan later clarified that falling debris caused limited material damage to a vehicle. Simultaneously, the United Arab Emirates intercepted over 125 drones and six ballistic missiles within 24 hours. The Dubai Media Office confirmed a minor incident involving falling debris, though no injuries occurred.

Saudi Arabia faced sustained assaults over two days. Air defenses destroyed 16 drones in four waves targeting the Shaybah oil field in the Empty Quarter, alongside multiple ballistic and cruise missiles aimed at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Al-Kharj and drones near Riyadh.

In response to the escalation, the Gulf Cooperation Council affirmed the right of member states to defend their territories. The Saudi Cabinet, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, declared that the Kingdom reserves the "full right" to implement all necessary measures to safeguard its citizens and territory.