The Middle East conflict intensified on Tuesday as Iran launched drone attacks on Gulf countries, while the United States delivered mixed messages about the war’s duration. The escalating tensions have unsettled regional governments and global markets.
Early Tuesday, Iranian drones targeted Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Saudi authorities reported shooting down two drones over its eastern oil-producing province, while Kuwait intercepted six drones over its territory. These attacks follow a recent pattern of Iranian strikes across the Gulf.
The conflict, triggered by US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, has already spread to Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Israel, raising fears of wider regional instability.
US President Donald Trump offered contradictory statements, calling the conflict a potential “short excursion” but also warning that any disruption of oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz would trigger stronger US retaliation.
The attacks have already affected global markets, particularly oil prices, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical route for energy shipments. Shipping companies and governments are closely monitoring developments for potential disruptions.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) responded, insisting that Tehran alone would determine when the conflict ends, rejecting any external timelines.
The UAE and other Gulf states have urged de-escalation and stressed the need to protect civilian lives and infrastructure amid rising hostilities.
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