A wave of drone strikes across the Gulf has raised fresh concerns over Iran’s alleged shadow warfare strategy targeting U.S. allies, as regional tensions continue to escalate despite ceasefire claims. Kuwait has accused Iran and its proxies of launching drone attacks on vital facilities, while Bahrain reported intercepting over 100 projectiles in recent weeks. The UAE, however, said it experienced a rare period of calm with no incoming missile activity. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia acknowledged damage to its critical East–West oil pipeline, heightening fears over regional energy security. Analysts say the attacks reflect a broader pressure campaign linked to Iran’s regional strategy, though Tehran’s IRGC has denied all involvement, blaming possible actions by the U.S. or Israel. The situation unfolds ahead of planned U.S.-Iran talks in Islamabad, raising global concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East.
