Iran attacks U.S. allies in Middle East; Kuwait accuses it of hitting civilian infrastructure

Iran has launched a series of attacks against U.S. allies in the Middle East, escalating regional tensions as new American strikes on Iran enter their second week. The actions have particularly impacted Kuwait, which accused Iran of targeting civilian infrastructure and essential services.

Kuwait reported that Iranian attacks hit a water desalination plant and a power station. This led to the temporary closure of Kuwaiti airspace as defense forces intercepted Iranian missiles and drones. Several Kuwaiti firefighters and a worker were injured while responding to fires caused by the attacks. Reports also indicate an oil facility in Kuwait was struck, causing injuries and significant material damage, according to the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation. The Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry condemned Iran's actions as a systematic hostile approach targeting vital infrastructure and civilian objectives.

Similar incidents occurred in Bahrain and Jordan. Bahrain activated air raid sirens, warning residents to take shelter due to potential drone or missile threats. In Jordan, state news agency Petra reported that the kingdom's air defense systems intercepted Iranian missiles.

These Iranian strikes are framed as a response to U.S. attacks on Iranian targets, including bridges and energy infrastructure. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for hitting a U.S. military support center in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, and a U.S. radar installation at Ali Al Salem air base. The IRGC also alleged targeting a U.S. fighter jet base in Bahrain and destroying U.S. aircraft. The escalating conflict raises concerns about wider regional instability, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.