Iran Returns Fire After US Strikes, Arab Nations Urge Restraint
The United States and Iran have once again exchanged attacks over shipping issues in the Strait of Hormuz, despite having signed a memorandum of understanding in June. The development has sparked fears of a renewed regional escalation.
US Central Command stated on Sunday morning local time that its forces had completed a third round of strikes against Iran this week, framing the action as a response to Iranian forces targeting another commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by targeting US bases and facilities in several locations across the Gulf region. Iranian media reported that the strikes targeted US military facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar.
Egypt condemned the Iranian attacks on Sunday, with its Foreign Ministry describing them as a blatant violation of the sovereignty of the affected nations. The ministry labelled the attacks a dangerous escalation that threatens the security and stability of the Gulf region and undermines efforts to reduce tensions and strengthen regional security. Egypt stressed that there is no acceptable pretext or justification for such attacks, calling for an immediate halt to all escalatory actions and compliance with international law to prevent further tension and instability in the region.
The United Arab Emirates also condemned the Iranian missile and drone attacks. The Iraqi Foreign Ministry expressed concern over the continued tensions and developments affecting maritime security in the region, warning of potential impacts on regional security, stability, and international trade. Iraq called for dialogue and diplomatic means to resolve differences and reaffirmed its support for all efforts aimed at de-escalation and protecting the region’s shared interests.
In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its solidarity with the targeted nations and its support for measures to maintain their security and stability. The UAE Ministry of Defence stated on social media that its forces intercepted incoming missiles and drones, while the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority confirmed the situation remained stable, adding that the detected missile threat was outside UAE territory.
Oman summoned the Iranian ambassador to deliver a formal protest over drone attacks targeting sites in the Musandam and Al Wusta governorates. The Omani Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern over what it described as irresponsible actions and stressed the need to respect state sovereignty, the principles of good neighbourliness, non-interference in internal affairs, and the norms governing bilateral relations.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement strongly condemning the Iranian attacks that targeted its territory and several neighbouring countries, calling them a flagrant violation of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law.