Iran claims failed US missile struck Kuwait airport after saying Gulf bore 'clear responsibility'

Iran's Revolutionary Guards asserted that a malfunctioning U.S. Patriot interceptor missile, not Iranian ordnance, struck Kuwait International Airport on Tuesday. Regime-linked media reported this claim, which directly contradicts earlier Iranian statements that had placed "direct and clear responsibility" on Kuwait and Bahrain for attacks in the region, alleging their territory was used to support U.S. military operations against Iran.

The U.S. military swiftly denied Iran's account, labeling the claims as false. A U.S. spokesperson stated that Iran was responsible for a "deliberate, calculated, and unjustified attack" on the civilian airport using drones. This exchange highlights escalating tensions in the Gulf region, with Tehran reserving the right to self-defense and threatening to target the source of any future attacks.

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Iran's claims that a US missile interceptor had damaged Kuwait International Airport were false, adding that Iran struck the civilian airport with drones in a "deliberate, calculated, and unjustified attack."

In response to the incident, Kuwait has expelled two Iranian diplomats, declaring them persona non grata and giving them 24 hours to leave the country. Kuwait's Foreign Ministry summoned Iran's charge d'affairs and reduced the number of Iranian diplomats permitted in the country. The strikes resulted in one death and over 60 injuries, leading to the diversion of several flights and the suspension of all aviation traffic. Terminal One of the airport sustained structural damage.

Debris was seen scattered on the floor with a fire burning in the background following the Iranian strikes, according to images released by the Kuwaiti foreign ministry. The incident underscores the volatile security situation in the region, with conflicting narratives emerging from Iran and the U.S. regarding the cause and responsibility for the attack.

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Kuwait and Bahrain bore "direct and clear responsibility" for the attack on the airport and the attacks on the region, alleging their territory and facilities had been used to support US military operations against Iran.