The situation in the Persian Gulf region following the unprovoked attack by American and Israeli forces on Iran has reached dramatic proportions. Iran is following a rational tactic, striking US bases and embassies across Gulf nations as it prepares for a prolonged war. The US is clearly unprepared for a long-term conflict, with both Trump and other officials stressing that the goal is a five-week military operation covering the entirety of March 2026.
Iran is striking American bases in Gulf countries with an obvious objective: hitting direct US interests while indirectly seeking to embroil other Persian Gulf nations in the war to pressure the Americans into halting their attacks. This explains the strikes on facilities such as the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia, which was hit by two Iranian drones, sparking a fire. Additionally, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) struck a US airbase in Bahrain. Meanwhile, the Secretary of Iran's National Security Council, Larijani, stated on social media that the country is ready to defend itself in a protracted war, unlike the US. For those familiar with military operations, a ground invasion of Iran requires massive preparation, logistics, and weaponry; currently, the US lacks the prerequisites for a landing, making a "boots on the ground" scenario impossible. Furthermore, the Americans are not ready for the arrival of soldiers' coffins, whereas Iran is prepared as death is a daily reality.
China's resounding intervention: Iran is not developing nuclear weapons – US and Israel must stop
Iran is not developing nuclear weapons, and China is calling on the US and Israel to cease their attacks, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning. "We note that Iran has repeatedly confirmed it has no intention of developing nuclear weapons and has recently engaged in serious and sincere talks with the US. We call for an immediate end to hostilities and the resumption of dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible to maintain the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and ensure peace and stability in the Middle East and the world," highlighted Mao Ning. The spokesperson also reminded that the US and Israel attacked Iran during negotiations, thereby violating international law and causing the escalation of tension in the Middle East. She added that Beijing steadfastly supports a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue through dialogue and respects Tehran's right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
US embassy in Saudi Arabia in flames – Israeli provocation at Aramco
The conflict in the Middle East is escalating. The Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has openly threatened officials in the United States and Israel, stating they "will not be safe even in their homeland." The IRGC made this statement in response to the US-Israeli raid that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and members of his family. Trump's remark... "I got him before he got me" is a childish excuse of a nursery-level state. Furthermore, Iran stated it will burn any ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz and will do everything to block oil exports.
The IRGC emphasized that, if necessary, they will attack not only ships but also pipelines in the region to put the enemy in a difficult position. It has been reported that the American embassy was hit by two Iranian drones, causing a limited fire and minor material damage. So far, there have been no reports of injuries or deaths. Information suggests two more drones struck near the embassy. Following the attack, the Revolutionary Guards announced they have begun efforts to destroy "US civilian centers" in the region. "The explosion at the US embassy in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a move in this direction," the IRGC stated in a Telegram post.
US: We have dismantled the Iranian navy in the Persian Gulf
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it has destroyed the entire Iranian navy in the Gulf of Oman. Additionally, CENTCOM claimed it has destroyed command and control points of the Revolutionary Guards. "During extensive operations, US forces destroyed IRGC command and control points, Iranian air defense systems, missile launchers, and drones, as well as military airfields," stated a CENTCOM announcement on X.
New attacks in Bahrain and Iraq
US Department of War personnel were injured in an Iranian raid in Bahrain. Iran launched an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at a hotel in Bahrain where two employees of the United States Department of War were staying, wounding them. Additionally, the Iranian television channel SNN reported that the American military base in Erbil, Iraq, was attacked by Iranian drones.
US embassy in Kuwait closes
The US embassy in Kuwait announced today, 3/3, that it is closing until further notice "due to ongoing regional tensions." "We have canceled all regular and emergency consular appointments. We will provide updates on when the embassy will resume normal operations," the embassy stated on X. It is noted that the embassy was attacked on Sunday 1/1 and Monday 2/1 as part of the Iranian strikes. The first members of the US armed forces killed in the conflict between the US and Iran lost their lives at a port in Kuwait on Sunday morning. CENTCOM announced Monday afternoon that the death toll has risen to six.
Personnel evacuated from Jordan, Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar, and Kuwait
Under these developments, the State Department ordered the mandatory departure of non-essential US personnel and their families from Jordan, Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar, and Kuwait for security reasons. The State Department pointed out that personnel in these countries face an ongoing threat from Iranian drone and missile attacks, as well as significant disruptions to commercial air travel. Furthermore, it warns of the risk of terrorist attacks in Jordan and Bahrain and notes high risks of violence and kidnappings in Iraq.
Was Netanyahu's office hit?
The IRGC also claimed to have struck the office of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. However, Israel denied this, and Netanyahu himself later appeared in public, issuing a statement calling the operation against Iran his "salvation."
Ballistic missiles against the United Arab Emirates
The Ministry of Defense of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reported another ballistic missile attack from Iran. The Ministry added that the Emirates are ready to face any threats to ensure the protection of the country's territory and the safety of its citizens and residents.
Israel engaged in provocative actions
Military sources familiar with the situation stated that the February 2nd attack on Saudi Arabia's largest oil refinery, Saudi Aramco, in Ras Tanura, was carried out by Israel to frame Iran. According to intelligence reports, the port of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates is also one of the next targets of the Israelis.
Trump furious over Iranian attack on US Embassy in Saudi Arabia – Iran is a colossal threat
In an interview with NewsNation, US President Trump announced that the US will give a harsh response to the attack on the American embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. "You will soon find out what the response will be to the attack on the American embassy in Riyadh and the death of American military personnel," the US President stated. On the night of March 3rd, the US embassy in Saudi Arabia was attacked by two drones.
The development of Iran's missile program would constitute a "colossal threat" to the security of the United States, concluded President Donald Trump during a speech at the White House. The regime's conventional ballistic missile program has advanced rapidly, posing a clear and colossal threat to the United States and our forces stationed abroad, Trump emphasized. According to Trump, when the American operation began, Tehran already had missiles in its arsenal capable of striking Europe and American military bases in the region. Moreover, Iran was close to developing intercontinental missiles that would threaten US soil. "We initially projected 4 to 5 weeks. However, we have the capability to continue for much longer," Trump noted. Additionally, he does not rule out a ground operation in Iran if necessary, though he added such action "probably won't be necessary."
Marco Rubio (US Secretary of State): Next phase of US attack on Iran will be even harsher
The next phase of the US attack on Iran will be even more intense, stated US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "The next phase for Iran will be even more serious than it is now," he told reporters at the Capitol. According to Marco Rubio, Washington will proceed with even more powerful strikes against Iran.
CNN: Satellite images show damage to Iranian nuclear facilities
Several buildings at the nuclear facilities in the Iranian city of Natanz sustained damage following US-Israeli attacks, reports CNN, citing satellite images taken by Vantor. "Satellite images taken by Vantor in the last 48 hours show damage to the Natanz nuclear facility... According to CNN's analysis of the images, a large warehouse and two small two-story buildings were damaged." It is noted that these structures could have served as access points for workers and transfer points to the facility's underground structures.
Netanyahu (Israeli PM): The war will not be endless
The Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, countered criticisms that the Middle East conflict will evolve into an "endless war," arguing instead that it will lead to peace and democracy in Iran. In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu stated: "This is not an endless war. In fact, it is something that will usher in an era of peace we never even dreamed of." He reiterated the claim that action was necessary to prevent the Islamic Republic from acquiring a nuclear weapon, without providing evidence that it was closer to obtaining one.
Israel Warning: Evacuate southern Lebanon – Continuous attacks against Hezbollah, IDF ground invasion
Israel issued evacuation orders for dozens of villages and settlements in southern Lebanon, as it continues to strike Hezbollah targets and positions. At the same time, the Israeli army is proceeding with a ground invasion of southern Lebanon aimed at preventing any threat against Israel. A spokesperson for the Israeli armed forces stated that their ground forces deployed in the border area with southern Lebanon function as a "forward defensive formation" in the context of the conflict, targeting Hezbollah.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson noted that Israeli attacks against Iran will continue simultaneously with those at the border, adding that forces are "prepared to operate against Iran for weeks." IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee mentioned 50 villages and settlements in a post on X on Tuesday, calling on residents to flee their homes. "The activities of Hezbollah force Israel's military forces to act dynamically against them, and we have no intention of harming you," the Israeli army statement read.
The announcement calls on residents of affected areas to stay at least 1,000 meters away from their villages, warning that anyone near Hezbollah facilities "puts their life at risk." An evacuation order was also repeated for the southern Beirut district of Haret Hreik, while a new warning was issued for a second nearby district. At the same time, the Lebanese army began withdrawing its troops from "advanced positions" on the border with Israel. According to Lebanon's National News Agency, the army is redeploying its troops to other positions in the country. This move follows the statement by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz that Israeli forces had the capability to occupy additional areas in Lebanon in what the IDF described as a limited "tactical" operation.
Iran is ready for long-term war, unlike the US
The Secretary of Iran's National Security Council, Larijani, stated that the country is ready to defend itself in a protracted war, unlike the US. "As for the last 300 years, Iran has not been the initiator of war and our brave armed forces have never launched an attack except for defense, we will decisively defend ourselves and our 6,000-year-old civilization, regardless of the cost, and we will make the enemies regret their miscalculations," Larijani stated. He continued by saying that Iran is ready to defend itself in a prolonged war, highlighting the country's deterrent stance and its firm position against tyranny.
Iran launched ballistic missile attacks on military bases in three countries
Iran attacked military bases in three Middle East countries with ballistic missiles and drones, according to the Telegram channel Middle East Spectator (MES), which included footage. Specifically, the naval base in Bahrain, the Al Udeid airbase in Qatar, and the Ali Salem airbase in Kuwait sustained damage. On the night of March 3rd, the US sent tanker aircraft to the Middle East. Earlier, the Qatar Ministry of Defense reported an Iranian missile attack on a water storage tank belonging to the Mesaieed power station. A production facility belonging to Qatar Energy was also hit.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz – All ships are targets
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage bypassing Iran and Oman that serves as the main route for transporting crude oil from oil-rich countries like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait to the rest of the world. An advisor to the Revolutionary Guards commander warned that ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz will be targeted. Even before these statements, navigation in the passage had essentially stopped due to security concerns, as tankers in the area were attacked over the weekend.
Iran controls the northern side of the strait. Approximately 20 million barrels of oil, or about one-fifth of daily global production, pass through the strait daily, which is characterized as a "critical oil bottleneck." The strait also carries about one-fifth of the global liquefied natural gas trade. Energy analysts warn that oil and gas prices will likely remain high until the strait becomes navigable again.
War in Iran by the numbers: Gulf states have intercepted 518 missiles and 1,129 drones
The numbers of missiles and drones that Iran has launched within the first 48 hours of the war against Gulf states are impressive. The attacks have hit American bases as well as urban centers, energy infrastructure, airports, and hotels, causing disruption and panic in Arab states. Indicatively, during this period, the Gulf states—with the exception of Saudi Arabia and Oman, which have not released data—have intercepted 518 missiles and 1,129 drones.
Specifically, since the start of the war: • Kuwait has intercepted 178 ballistic missiles and 384 drones, according to data from 2/3 as reported by the Kuwait News Agency. • The United Arab Emirates (UAE) have intercepted 169 missiles out of 182 detected, while the rest fell into the sea. They have also intercepted 645 drones, with an additional 44 hitting the country's territory, according to the Ministry of Defense. • Bahrain has intercepted 70 missiles and 76 drones, according to state media on Tuesday 3/3, citing the Bahrain Defense Force General Command. • Qatar has intercepted 101 missiles out of 104 detected, as well as 24 out of 39 drones, and shot down two Iranian SU-24 bombers, according to the Qatar News Agency. • Saudi Arabia has not made public total figures for missiles or drones intercepted. The US embassy in Riyadh suffered an attack by alleged Iranian drones, according to two sources on Tuesday. The Ministry of Defense later reported that eight drones were intercepted near the cities of Riyadh and Al-Kharj. • Oman, which traditionally plays the role of mediator between Washington and Tehran, has largely remained out of the line of fire. However, the commercial port of Duqm in Oman was targeted by two drones on Sunday, while a tanker was attacked approximately five nautical miles off the coast of Musandam.
Jeffrey Sachs (Columbia University): War under conditions of massive political instability – US plan in Iran will not succeed
The United States plan to establish a stable pro-American regime in Iran will not succeed; this strategy has not evolved according to plan, argued Columbia University professor Jeffrey Sachs. "Establishing Israeli military hegemony in the Middle East with US support is the plan. The primary goal is to achieve Israeli dominance and suppress the Arab world," Sachs said, detailing the strategy. According to him, such a geopolitical move also involves an attempt to overthrow the current regime in Iran. As he said, the more general goal of the United States is to become a hegemonic power.
Furthermore, Jeffrey Sachs argued that Washington's ambitions toward Iran do not correspond to its actual capabilities. "I believe this is extremely dangerous. (...) We are talking about a war under conditions of massive political instability. (...) The US itself is not stable enough to achieve this goal, namely a stable pro-American regime in Iran," Sachs concluded.
Junge Welt: Out of touch – Who asked Iran not to hit Israel and US bases
Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have opened the door for participation in the US-Israeli war against Iran, reports the newspaper Junge Welt. The report cites the joint statement of the three European states, in which they mention that "we will take the necessary measures to protect our interests and the interests of our allies in the region. This may also include, if necessary, taking proportional military defensive measures to destroy Iran's ability to launch missiles and drones at their source."
At the same time, the report highlights that there was no criticism of Tel Aviv or Washington from the representatives of the "European Trio"; on the contrary, they condemned Iran's actions. "We call on Iran to immediately stop the relentless attacks," the countries' statement says, according to the article. On Saturday, the United States and Israel launched a large-scale military operation against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Tel Aviv stated the goal of the attacks is to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Donald Trump, for his part, stated he intends to destroy the Iranian fleet and the country's defense industry, while also calling on citizens to overthrow the regime.
Rising oil prices will slow global economies
One of the most serious consequences of the Middle East conflict could be the slowing of global economic growth, economists warn, with an increase in inflation if protection measures are not implemented. "We are talking primarily about oil and the rate of global economic growth, which affects growth rates throughout the rest of the world. We know that events in the Middle East hinder production, and freight and insurance prices are also rising. Insurance is a very important element of foreign trade."
India and China, the driving forces of economic growth in recent years, consume about 50% of Persian Gulf oil. Disruptions in energy supply will inevitably lead to a slowdown in the economic growth of these engines and, consequently, the entire world. "Russia now has the opportunity to fill the oil gap in India and China. Despite sanctions, Europe may also ask for something. And it seems Russia will not be selling oil and other energy resources at large discounts as it did until recently." Brent crude prices briefly soared to their highest level since January 2025, at $81.5 per barrel. Prices subsequently retreated to about $77.5 per barrel, but this level was still significantly higher than before the escalation in the Middle East.
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