Gulf States Intercept Drones, Missiles As Iran Conflict Escalates
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 (Bernama) -- Air defence systems across several Gulf states were on high alert and activated early Wednesday following reports of drones and missiles launched from Iran, with Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia confirming interceptions, while a separate drone strike caused damage in northern Iraq.
According to Anadolu Ajansi (AA), Kuwait’s National Guard spokesperson Brig Gen Jadaan Fadel Jadaan said that seven drones were “neutralised.”
He added that National Guard units continue to prioritise the protection and defence of Kuwait, working to maintain security and stability.
In a separate statement, the UAE Defence Ministry said its air defence systems were responding to incoming missiles and drones launched from Iran.
It added that explosions heard across different parts of the country were the result of interceptions by air defence systems.
In a related development, a large fire broke out in the northern Iraqi city of Erbil following an attack by a kamikaze drone, according to media reports.
The drone reportedly targeted the Koy Sanjaq district. An explosion was heard following the strike, igniting a fire at the impact site, with thick smoke seen rising from the area.
Separately, three loud explosions were heard in quick succession near Erbil International Airport, where a United States (US) base is also located.
Air defence systems were activated during the drone attack, with parts of a neutralised drone falling into a park in a residential area of the city. Security forces, fire trucks and ambulances were deployed to the scene.
Meanwhile, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported that Saudi air defence systems intercepted six drones and one ballistic missile in separate incidents.
Defence Ministry spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Malki said the six drones were intercepted and destroyed in the Eastern Region.
He added that a ballistic missile launched towards Al-Kharj Governorate was intercepted and destroyed, with shrapnel falling in the vicinity of Prince Sultan Air Base, causing no damage.
-- BERNAMA
