Micah Jonah, March 7, 2026
Air defence systems in several Gulf states have intercepted missiles and drones launched from Iran as tensions escalate amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
The Saudi Ministry of Defense said its forces intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles that were heading towards Prince Sultan Air Base in Al-Kharj.
Saudi authorities also reported intercepting six drones targeting the Shaybah oilfield, in addition to another drone that was shot down east of the capital, Riyadh.
In Qatar, the Qatar Ministry of Defence said the country faced a wave of drone attacks on Friday, with 10 drones launched from Iran. Nine of the drones were intercepted, while one landed in a remote area without causing reported casualties.
Qatar’s aviation authorities later announced the partial resumption of air navigation through limited emergency routes, allowing a restricted number of flights, including passenger evacuation operations.
In the United Arab Emirates, the Defence Ministry said its air defence systems were responding to incoming missile and drone threats. Authorities said sounds heard in parts of the country were linked to the interception of aerial threats.
Officials in Dubai also reported a minor incident caused by falling debris following an interception but denied reports of any impact on operations at Dubai International Airport.
Meanwhile, sirens were reported in Bahrain as authorities urged residents to move to safe areas amid fears of further attacks.
Elsewhere in the region, a missile was intercepted over Aqaba, a city located near the Israeli port of Eilat.
The attacks come as hostilities intensify following strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets, with Tehran launching retaliatory missile and drone attacks across the region.
