Saudi Arabia on Saturday issued a forceful condemnation of Iranian missile strikes targeting United States military installations and several Gulf countries, warning that continued aggression threatens regional stability and international security.
In an official statement, Riyadh described the attacks as “blatant Iranian aggression” and a “flagrant violation of sovereignty,” specifically naming the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan among the affected states.
“The kingdom affirms its full solidarity with and unwavering support for the brotherly countries, and its readiness to place all its capabilities at their disposal in support of any measures they may undertake,” the statement read.
The condemnation came after the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes across Iran earlier in the day, marking a dramatic escalation in hostilities and pushing the Middle East closer to open confrontation. Iran responded by firing missiles toward Israel and US-linked targets across the region. Explosions were reported in Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain and Qatar — all of which host US military facilities or maintain strategic ties with Washington.
Attacks Repelled on Saudi Territory
Saudi authorities later confirmed that missile attacks had also targeted areas in Riyadh and the kingdom’s eastern region but said its air defence systems successfully intercepted and repelled them.
“These attacks cannot be justified under any pretext,” the kingdom said, noting that Iranian authorities were aware that Saudi Arabia had previously affirmed it would not allow its airspace or territory to be used for strikes against Iran.
Riyadh warned that it would take “all necessary measures” to defend its territory, citizens and residents, including the option of responding directly to the aggression.
Gulf States Close Ranks
Qatar’s foreign ministry described the Iranian missile attack as “unacceptable” and a direct threat to regional peace and security. Doha also expressed strong condemnation of violations against Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain and Jordan, pledging to safeguard the sovereignty of sisterly states.
The United Arab Emirates labelled the attacks a clear breach of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. In a statement, Abu Dhabi affirmed that the security of Gulf states is “indivisible” and warned that continued violations would undermine both regional and global stability, including energy security and economic markets.
The UAE reiterated its rejection of using regional territories as arenas for proxy conflict and called for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement, while asserting its legitimate right to respond in defence of its sovereignty.
Kuwait likewise condemned the missile strikes and confirmed that its defence systems had successfully repelled incoming threats in accordance with established operational procedures. Kuwaiti officials warned that sustained military escalation would erode regional security and stability.
Crown Prince Engages Gulf Leaders
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held consultations with Gulf leaders following the attacks, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support and readiness to mobilise all resources to counter what he described as actions undermining regional peace.
The latest developments mark one of the most serious escalations in the Gulf in recent years, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. While Gulf states have called for restraint and diplomatic solutions, the rapid exchange of military strikes signals an increasingly volatile security environment with far-reaching implications for global energy markets and geopolitical stability.
