The conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel intensified across the Gulf region on Monday, with missile strikes, air attacks, and drone incidents causing deaths and disruption. Casualties are mounting as both sides continue their military operations following the US-Israeli strike that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
US Jets Mistakenly Shot Down in Kuwait
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that three F-15E Strike Eagle jets were accidentally shot down by Kuwaiti air defences on Sunday. “All six aircrew ejected safely, have been recovered, and are in stable condition. Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defense forces,” the statement said. Investigations are underway to determine the cause.
Attacks Across Gulf Countries
Iran has continued to target US and Israeli assets, as well as energy infrastructure in the region. In Oman, an oil tanker was struck by an explosive-laden boat off Muscat, killing one person. Qatar’s Defence Ministry confirmed that two drones hit energy facilities in Ras Laffan, including a water tank at a power plant and a Qatar Energy facility, though no casualties were reported.
In the UAE, debris from a drone attack fell in Ras Al Khaimah’s al-Hamra village after air defenses successfully intercepted it. In Bahrain, the UK Maritime Trade Operations reported that a vessel at the port was struck by unknown projectiles. Meanwhile, Chevron temporarily halted production at Israel’s Leviathan gasfield under orders from Israel’s Energy Ministry, though its facilities were reported safe.
Lebanon and Hezbollah Under Scrutiny
In Lebanon, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned Hezbollah’s military operations, calling them “illegal acts” and banning the group from conducting military activities outside government oversight. The government reaffirmed its commitment to the 2024 ceasefire with Israel. At least 31 people have died in Israeli strikes following Hezbollah rocket attacks on northern Israel.
Rising Tensions and Calls for Diplomacy
US President Donald Trump warned that military action against Iran will continue until US objectives are met, promising to avenge the deaths of three American soldiers. Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the need for diplomacy. “We hope that this process, or a diplomatic process, shall resume – it must,” he said, urging a long-term solution for Iran and its neighbors once the fighting ends.
Casualties Mount Across the Region
The joint US-Israeli operations have killed at least 555 people in Iran, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society. Explosions have been reported in Dubai, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, and other Gulf cities. Attacks on US bases, oil facilities, and strategic locations have intensified, marking one of the most serious escalations in the region in decades.
