Trending Now - Gulf States Remain Neutral Amid Rising Iranian Attacks

WHO:

President Trump stated that experts had not anticipated Iran would target neighboring countries.

Jack Keane, Fox News senior strategic analyst.

Luca Nevola, ACLED’s senior analyst for Yemen and the Gulf.

Jacob Olidort, chief research officer at the America First Policy Institute.

Salman Al-Ansari, a Saudi geopolitical researcher.

A Qatari official commented on Qatar's policies.

Vice Adm. Robert S. Harward, former deputy commander of U.S. Central Command.

Abdullah Aljunaid, a Bahraini analyst.

Lt. Gen. Richard Y. Newton III, retired Air Force commander.

WHAT:

Iran's retaliatory missile and drone campaign in the Gulf has killed three people and wounded 58 in the United Arab Emirates since March 1, 2026.

Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) recorded at least 25 Iranian attacks against shipping in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz since February 28, 2026.

A drone attack on the UAE's Shah gas field caused a fire, suspending operations.

A drone hit a fuel tank in the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, causing a fire.

A Palestinian civilian was killed in a missile attack in Abu Dhabi.

Saudi Arabia's Defence Ministry reported downing multiple Iranian drones over Riyadh with no casualties or damage.

WHERE:

The United Arab Emirates, specifically Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

The Strait of Hormuz.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Dubai, UAE.

WHEN:

March 1, 2026: Iranian strikes in the UAE began.

February 28, 2026: ACLED recorded Iranian attacks starting from this date.

March 12, 2026: Iranian strikes triggered a fire at fuel tanks in Bahrain.

February 19, 2026: Naval drills held by Iran and Russia at the Port of Bandar Abbas.

WHY:

Gulf states are prioritizing territorial defense and preventing wider conflict to stabilize the region and global energy markets.

Iran's attacks are a response to U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian oil facilities.

HOW:

Iran has expanded its attacks to Gulf energy infrastructure and shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz.

Gulf states are focusing on defensive measures while supporting diplomatic channels, including mediation efforts through Oman.

(UPDATED March 17, 2026 13:27 UTC)

President Trump stated that experts had not anticipated Iran's recent missile and drone campaign targeting neighboring countries, which has resulted in three deaths and 58 injuries in the United Arab Emirates since March 1. The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project reported at least 25 Iranian attacks against shipping in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, while a drone attack on the UAE's Shah gas field caused a fire that suspended operations. In response to these escalating tensions, Gulf states are prioritizing territorial defense and diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region and global energy markets.