The US has launched new strikes against Iran, targeting military capabilities. UAE residents should stay informed about travel, security, and oil market impacts.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Jul 13, 2026 ALN:
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the completion of another wave of strikes against Iran on July 12, targeting dozens of locations with precision weapons. This military action is part of a broader strategy by the US to counter perceived threats from Iran, particularly regarding its influence in the Gulf region and its alleged support for militant groups that destabilize neighboring countries.
CENTCOM stated that the strikes focused on:
Iranian air defense systems
Coastal radar sites
Missile and drone capabilities
Small boats linked to maritime operations
The US military utilized fighter aircraft, naval vessels, aerial drones, and sea drones in the operation, aiming to diminish Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway is crucial for global oil transportation, with a significant percentage of the world’s oil passing through it. The US has long maintained that freedom of navigation in this area is pivotal for international trade and energy security.
CENTCOM emphasized that the waterway remains open for international shipping, asserting that US forces are prepared to uphold freedom of navigation. This assertion comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, where Iran has threatened to disrupt shipping lanes in response to US military actions.
In the aftermath of the US strikes, Iranian state media reported explosions in various locations, including the port cities of Bandar Abbas, Sirik, and Jask, as well as Qeshm Island. These areas are strategically important for Iran’s military and commercial operations, particularly in relation to the Strait of Hormuz.
A security official indicated that one person was killed and four others injured after a projectile struck a water pumping station in Mahshahr County, located in southwestern Iran’s Khuzestan province. Iran’s state news agency IRNA confirmed the casualties, which highlight the human cost of the escalating conflict and the potential for further retaliatory measures.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran claimed responsibility for attacks on military facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan as part of its retaliatory operations following the US strikes. This response underscores the heightened tensions and the potential for a broader regional conflict involving multiple countries.
Kuwait: The IRGC claimed it targeted Ali Al-Salem Air Base and Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Base, asserting that it destroyed fuel tanks, Patriot air defense systems, and a strategic radar facility. These bases are critical to US military operations in the region, and any disruption could have significant implications for US and allied forces.
Bahrain: The IRGC claimed it targeted facilities at Bahrain’s Sheikh Isa Air Base as part of its second phase of retaliatory operations. Bahrain hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, making it a key player in the US military presence in the Gulf.
Jordan: The IRGC stated it attacked Jordan’s Prince Hassan Air Base using missiles and drones, claiming the strikes caused fires at fuel depots and ammunition storage facilities. Jordan's strategic location as a neighbor to both Iraq and Israel makes it an important ally for the US and a potential target for Iranian retaliation.
These claims come amid escalating tensions between Iran, the US, and Gulf countries, with regional authorities closely monitoring security developments. The situation remains fluid, and the potential for miscalculation or further escalation is a concern for regional stability.
Iran announced another closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, heightening tensions over one of the world’s most critical energy routes. The narrow waterway between Iran and Oman is vital for global oil and gas shipments, with a significant share of international energy trade passing through it. The strategic importance of the strait cannot be overstated, as it serves as a conduit for approximately 20% of the world's oil supply.
The US military reported that shipping traffic continues through the strait, while Iran maintains that restrictions are in place until "stability and calm" are restored. This dichotomy reflects the ongoing struggle for influence in the region and the opposing narratives put forth by both the US and Iran regarding their military actions and intentions.
Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar on Sunday, escalating regional tensions following US strikes on Iranian targets.
The UAE reported that its defense systems engaged Iranian missiles and drones. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority later stated that missile threats detected earlier were outside the country’s borders. This proactive defense response underscores the UAE's commitment to safeguarding its national security amid rising regional threats.
Kuwait’s armed forces announced they intercepted hostile aerial targets within Kuwaiti airspace following the attacks. This incident highlights the vulnerability of Gulf nations to aerial threats and the importance of robust air defense systems in the region.
Qatar reported that three individuals, including a child, were injured by falling shrapnel after Iranian attacks targeted the country. Such incidents raise concerns about civilian safety and the potential for broader humanitarian impacts resulting from military engagements in the region.
Jordan’s military confirmed that three missiles fired from Iranian territory landed at various locations across the kingdom. A military source stated that the strikes resulted in no casualties, with damage limited to minor material losses. Nonetheless, the threat of missile strikes serves as a reminder of the precarious security situation in the region.
Oman’s state news agency reported that sites in the Musandam region were targeted by drones, with no casualties reported. Oman’s geographical position makes it a key player in regional security dynamics, and its response to the Iranian threats will be closely watched by neighboring countries.
Following the latest US strikes and Iran’s announcement regarding the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices surged. Brent crude rose over 3% to approximately $78.50 a barrel, while US crude prices also increased by more than 3%, reflecting concerns over potential disruptions to global energy supplies. The fluctuations in oil prices are indicative of the market's sensitivity to geopolitical tensions, especially in a region that is vital for energy exports.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry accused the US of employing "overt and covert pressure" to hinder progress in negotiations with Oman regarding arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran asserted that the recent US strikes have undermined diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions. This claim points to the complex interplay of military actions and diplomatic negotiations in the region, where both sides may be using their military capabilities to gain leverage in talks.
US President Donald Trump stated that Iran and the US were nearing an agreement before the latest escalation. He claimed that Tehran was prepared to make concessions prior to a drone attack on a ship that altered the situation. This assertion reflects the ongoing debate over the effectiveness of diplomatic engagement versus military action in addressing the challenges posed by Iran's nuclear program and regional ambitions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both the US and Iran to cease the renewed fighting, warning that further escalation could exacerbate regional instability. The UN's call for restraint highlights the international community's concern over the potential for a wider conflict that could involve multiple countries and lead to significant humanitarian consequences.
Oman reported that it rescued 23 crew members from a commercial vessel after a strike forced them to abandon the ship off its coast. India confirmed that one of its nationals remains missing following the incident involving the Cypriot-flagged vessel. This incident underscores the risks faced by commercial shipping in the region and the potential for collateral damage resulting from military actions.
Flight and travel updates: Monitor airline and airport advisories as regional airspace developments continue. Travelers should remain aware of potential disruptions and changes to flight schedules due to the ongoing military situation.
Oil market impact: Rising crude prices could influence global energy markets. Residents should be aware of how fluctuations in oil prices may affect fuel costs and broader economic conditions.
Security updates: Follow official UAE and Gulf authorities for verified information. Keeping informed about security developments is crucial for ensuring personal safety and preparedness in the event of escalations.
Strait of Hormuz developments: Any disruption to shipping could affect regional trade and fuel markets. Observing developments in this critical waterway will be important for understanding the broader economic implications of the conflict.
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