UAE Closes Airspace as Iran Targets US Bases Across Middle East

The United Arab Emirates has shut its airspace following Iranian missile attacks on United States military facilities across several Middle Eastern countries. Qatar Airways has suspended all flights, and multiple Gulf states have enacted emergency measures.

Explosions were reported in Abu Dhabi, Manama, Doha, Kuwait City and Riyadh after Iran launched what it described as retaliatory strikes. The escalation follows joint US and Israeli operations on Iranian territory earlier on Saturday.

In Bahrain, authorities confirmed that a missile targeted the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Juffair. Smoke was seen rising from the vicinity of the naval base. The interior ministry had earlier urged residents to remain indoors after reports of blasts in Manama.

The UAE government said the strike constituted a violation of its sovereignty and international law, adding that it reserves the right to respond. In Abu Dhabi, at least one fatality was reported after air defence systems intercepted several incoming missiles.

Qatar’s defence ministry said its forces intercepted missiles aimed at its territory before they reached the ground. Despite the interceptions, Doha closed its airspace, prompting Qatar Airways to halt operations. Kuwait also suspended air traffic as part of precautionary steps.

Iranian officials said the attacks were a response to US and Israeli strikes on several Iranian cities. Israel had described its earlier actions as pre-emptive.

A senior Iranian official told Al Jazeera that American and Israeli interests in the region were now legitimate targets, stating that there would be no restrictions following what Tehran termed aggression. Iran’s foreign ministry cited Article 51 of the United Nations Charter in defending its actions and said its armed forces were prepared for further developments.

Foreign missions across the Gulf issued security advisories. The British embassy in Doha instructed its nationals to remain indoors due to heightened tensions and possible travel disruptions. The US embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US consulate in Dubai also directed staff and American citizens in the UAE to shelter in place until further notice.

Air traffic disruptions and security alerts remain in effect as regional governments assess the situation.