Tehran, Mar 01 (V7N) – Iran has launched a series of counterattacks across the Middle East in response to ongoing United States and Israeli airstrikes, triggering casualties and widespread disruption to regional air traffic.

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates confirmed that one person was killed and 11 others injured in incidents linked to attacks near major airports. Officials in Abu Dhabi said a drone targeting Zayed International Airport was intercepted mid-air, but falling debris killed one person and injured seven others.

In Dubai, an incident at Dubai International Airport left four staff members injured, while thousands of flights across the region were cancelled, causing one of the most severe disruptions to global aviation since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Explosions were also reported in Doha, Manama and other Gulf cities as Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones targeting US-linked facilities and regional allies. Governments in Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait said their air defenses intercepted incoming missiles, though falling debris caused fires and infrastructure damage.

In Dubai, debris ignited a fire at a berth in the Jebel Ali Port and caused an explosion near the luxury Fairmont The Palm on the Palm Jumeirah. A small blaze was also reported outside the iconic Burj Al Arab.

Bahrain’s Interior Ministry said its airport sustained damage in a drone strike, while earlier claims by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama.

In Oman, state media reported two drone attacks on the commercial port of Duqm, injuring a worker.

Analysts warn that the expanding scope of retaliatory strikes risks further destabilizing the Gulf region and could significantly impact global aviation and energy markets if hostilities continue.

END/SMA/AJ