Kuwait and Bahrain have launched air strikes against Iran in retaliation for recent attacks on their territory, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. The two Gulf states targeted drone and missile storage sites, with the United Arab Emirates providing intelligence and defensive air cover for the operations.
The strikes mark an escalation in the conflict between Iran and Gulf nations. Both Kuwait and Bahrain have faced intense Iranian attacks in recent weeks. The UAE and Saudi Arabia had previously conducted strikes on Iran earlier in the conflict.
Kuwait's foreign ministry reported that Iran attacked a power plant and a water desalination facility earlier this week. The two countries are considered particularly vulnerable due to their geography and reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for oil exports.
The conflict has seen the US and Israel launching a ferocious attack on Iran earlier this year. A ceasefire extension signed in June has largely collapsed, with Iran continuing to strike Gulf states and vessels. US President Donald Trump told Axios on Thursday that he is considering a massive attack on Iran. The US military said Friday marked the 13th consecutive night of strikes on Iran.
It remains unclear whether the involvement of Kuwait and Bahrain will significantly alter the course of the war.