Gulf Tensions escalated on Wednesday as reports of explosions and air defense activity emerged across several Gulf countries following fresh military claims by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The IRGC said it disabled a second vessel in the Strait of Hormuz and launched ballistic missiles at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. It claimed the strike destroyed a fighter jet maintenance center and a command-and-control facility. However, officials have not independently verified those claims.
Iran also said US forces carried out airstrikes on several coastal bases and communication towers along the country’s southern coastline.
Furthermore, the IRGC claimed it struck Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan. According to the group, the attack damaged a command-and-control center and hangars used for MQ-9 drones. Independent sources have not confirmed the reported strike.
Meanwhile, residents in Doha reported hearing explosions overhead. Authorities sent emergency alerts to mobile phones, urging people to remain indoors and stay in safe locations.
The United Arab Emirates also activated its air defenses in response to reported missile and drone threats. The Ministry of Defence said interception operations caused the sounds heard across the country.
Similarly, Bahrain sounded air raid sirens and advised residents to remain calm while moving to the nearest safe location.
Inside Iran, authorities reported attacks on three cities in Khuzestan province. A security official said projectiles struck Hendijan, Mahshahr and Abadan, although officials did not immediately provide details about the extent of the damage.
Separately, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the crew of a container ship abandoned their vessel after it sustained damage near Oman. The agency reported that the ship caught fire after an object struck its stern about nine nautical miles east of the Omani coast.
The latest developments highlight growing instability across the Gulf region as military activity intensifies and maritime security faces renewed threats.
