Iran Threatens Neighbors Over Regional Attacks

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday, March 28, 2026, cautioned nearby states against allowing their territory to be used for actions targeting Iran, with a specific focus on countries that host United States military facilities.

The warning came as the Gulf region reported a series of drone and missile incidents, underscoring a widening security shock following a sharp escalation that began on February 28 with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

Escalation and Iran’s message

Pezeshkian’s statement framed Iran’s position as a deterrent message to neighbors, urging them not to provide a platform for operations against Iran. The remarks explicitly referenced states that host U.S. bases, but did not name specific countries in the statement described.

Iran also said it would respond forcefully if its infrastructure or economic centers are attacked. The source material does not specify what thresholds Iran is using to define such targets, leaving uncertainty around how Tehran may interpret future incidents.

Reported strikes across the Gulf

Kuwait International Airport reported major damage to its radar system after drone attacks, with no casualties reported. The account does not provide details on the number of drones involved or the extent of operational disruption at the airport.

In Abu Dhabi, strikes near the Khalifa Economic Zone injured six people and damaged facilities. Separately, two drones hit Oman’s Port of Salalah, injuring one person and causing minor damage.

Shipping disruption and competing claims

Following the incident at Salalah, Maersk suspended operations for 48 hours. The source does not clarify whether the pause affected specific terminals, routes, or broader schedules beyond the immediate stoppage.

Iran’s military claimed it struck a depot in Dubai linked to a Ukrainian anti-drone system, alleging the facility supported U.S. forces. This is an attributed claim; the material provided does not include independent verification or a response from the UAE, Ukraine, or the United States.

Air defenses and U.S. casualties

Saudi Arabia reported intercepting ballistic missiles and drones amid the wave of attacks. The report does not specify interception rates, locations, or damage assessments.

In a separate Friday attack on Prince Sultan Air Base, at least 15 American soldiers were wounded after six ballistic missiles and 29 drones were involved. The source does not state who launched the attack, nor does it detail the extent of damage at the base.

Why markets and policymakers are watching

The incidents described span airports, industrial zones, and a major port, highlighting how regional security events can quickly intersect with trade logistics and investment hubs. Even limited physical damage can translate into higher risk pricing for transport and infrastructure, particularly when attacks involve drones and missiles that can be launched at scale.

Key unknowns remain: the degree of coordination among attacks, the likelihood of further strikes on economic assets, and whether additional states will face pressure over basing arrangements. With Iran linking its warning to countries hosting U.S. forces, the political choices of Gulf governments could become more consequential for both regional security and cross-border commerce.