March 2, 2026
Multiple developments have unfolded across the Gulf and wider region as Iran and US-Israeli forces exchange strikes.
US warplanes crash in Kuwait
Kuwait’s Defense Ministry says several US fighter aircraft have come down in the country. Search-and-rescue operations were launched immediately, and all crew members have been reported safe. Personnel were evacuated and taken to hospital for checks; officials said they are in stable condition. Kuwaiti authorities coordinated directly with US forces and implemented joint technical measures. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause.
Saudi refinery targeted as drones intercepted
An attack hit the Ras Tanura oil refinery on Saudi Arabia’s Gulf coast. A fire was quickly brought under control and extinguished. The Saudi Defense Ministry said two drones targeted the facility but were intercepted. Authorities temporarily shut down the refinery near Dammam.
Blasts heard across Gulf cities
Loud explosions were reported in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Manama and Kuwait City as Iran carried out strikes on countries hosting US bases. Civilian infrastructure including airports, seaports, residential buildings and hotels has been hit since Saturday. Bahrain’s Interior Ministry said Iranian strikes had killed one person on the island, bringing Gulf fatalities to five.
Iran death toll and wider casualties
Iran’s Red Crescent reported at least 555 people killed across the country following US and Israeli strikes that began on Saturday. Iranian security chief Ali Larijani said Tehran has no interest in negotiating with the United States and warned of unprecedented retribution after the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in earlier strikes.
Lebanon: dozens killed in Israeli strikes
The Lebanese Health Ministry said at least 31 people have died and 149 were injured in Israeli airstrikes, mainly in southern regions and Beirut’s southern suburbs. Israel reported new strikes early Monday against Iran-aligned Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon.
China calls for ceasefire
China urged an immediate cessation of military operations and renewed diplomatic talks, warning against further spread of the conflict. Beijing said a Chinese citizen was killed in Tehran and its embassy is assisting the family. More than 3,000 Chinese nationals have reportedly left Iran after travel warnings.
Cyprus base and UK response
Following a drone strike that caused minor runway damage at the UK’s Akrotiri base in Cyprus, the UK Foreign Secretary said Washington had not requested use of the base. The UK had previously offered use of its bases for defensive strikes. Cyprus cancelled a planned EU ministers meeting after the incident and stressed it does not intend to participate in military operations.
US embassy in Kuwait warns citizens
The US embassy in Kuwait urged people not to come to the mission, citing continuing missile and UAV threats. Embassy personnel are sheltering in place and US citizens were advised to take cover on lower floors away from windows.
Context
The current escalations follow a major joint US-Israeli operation against Iran that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and others. US President Donald Trump announced the operation and vowed to degrade Iran’s military capabilities. The situation remains fluid, with investigations and rescue efforts ongoing and officials urging reliance on verified sources.