The US-Iran conflict has entered another dangerous phase, with US forces striking Iranian air-defence and radar systems and maritime capabilities while Tehran retaliates against US military positions and allies across the Gulf. For UAE residents, the immediate impact is being felt in air travel, shipping, fuel prices and the wider regional security environment.
At the same time, a separate but increasingly important aviation risk is emerging over Russian airspace, where Ukrainian drone activity has prompted warnings to airlines and insurers. The latest US strikes targeted Iranian air defences, radar systems, maritime assets, mine-laying capabilities and communications sites, according to the US military.
The attacks followed a US strike Sunday on Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island near the Strait of Hormuz. Washington said Iranian forces were preparing to use rockets to deploy sea mines that could threaten international shipping. Iran retaliated by firing missiles at US positions in Jordan.
Iran subsequently launched missile and drone attacks against US-linked targets and bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Iraq, while Gulf states activated air defences. Kuwait reported further missile and drone attacks early Thursday, saying its air defences intercepted the incoming threats. Bahrain also said Iranian drones had been intercepted.
For more details: Navamalayalam.com