Iran Strikes Gulf Infrastructure
Tensions are escalating in the Middle East as Iran launched strikes on Gulf infrastructure, including oil tankers near Iraq and ports in Bahrain, causing massive fires [https://x.com/i/status/2031984261432295716, https://x.com/i/status/2032116208967790984]. The IRGC vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed, threatening regional ports, and the UN reports 3 million displaced inside Iran [https://x.com/i/status/2032116208967790984]. Gulf states like Oman are evacuating oil terminals [https://x.com/i/status/2032201293658214779].
The strikes follow a coordinated military campaign by the US and Israel targeting Iranian nuclear, military, and leadership assets that began on February 28. Iran has since responded with missiles and drones hitting Gulf states. The attacks have reached the core of U.S. military infrastructure in the Gulf, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, and facilities linked to the U.S. Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. The attacks have expanded to civilian and commercial targets like airports, hotels, energy and port facilities, and even data centers. On Wednesday, Iran escalated its attacks on civilian infrastructure and transport networks, striking commercial ships and Dubai's international airport. Three merchant ships in the Gulf were hit by projectiles, bringing the total to 14 ships attacked since the war began. Hundreds of ships are blockaded along Iran's southern coast, causing major disruptions to energy supplies. Iran has warned it will continue this "war of attrition" until the US and Israel stop their bombing campaign. The UN Security Council demanded an immediate halt to attacks on Gulf states, but Iran condemned the vote as politically motivated.
