Tensions escalate across Gulf Region amid explosions, security alerts

US embassy in Kuwait issued a public advisory on its website, urging citizens to avoid approaching the embassy, take shelter on the lower floors of their buildings, stay away from windows and refrain from unnecessary outdoor activities

KUWAIT/MANAMA/DHA/ABU DHABI: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-March 2^nd, 2026) Amid rising tensions in the Gulf, the smoke was observed rising near the US embassy in Kuwait City which triggered alarm and prompting swift responses from emergency services.

Reuters and AFP reported that the firefighters and ambulances rushed to the scene. The US embassy in Kuwait issued a public advisory on its website, urging citizens to avoid approaching the embassy, take shelter on the lower floors of their buildings, stay away from windows and refrain from unnecessary outdoor activities. The embassy also warned that the threat of missile and drone strikes in the country remains high.

Meanwhile, loud explosions were reported in multiple Gulf capitals, including Manama (Bahrain), Doha (Qatar), and Abu Dhabi (UAE). CNN reported hearing several powerful explosions and the sound of military aircraft flying over both Doha and Dubai.

In Iraq, heavy explosions were also heard in the capital of the Kurdish Autonomous Region, Erbil.

Sources confirmed that Iraq's air defense systems successfully intercepted missiles and drones attempting to strike Erbil International Airport.

In a separate development, Kuwait’s official news agency reported that falling debris from the Mina Al-Ahmadi oil refinery, located near Kuwait City, caused minor injuries to two workers.

Bahrain's Ministry of Interior responded by activating airstrike sirens and advising civilians to seek shelter in safe locations. Additionally, the Sheikh Khalifa bin Salman Bridge, which connects the capital Manama, was temporarily closed as a precautionary measure.

The ongoing wave of attacks and counterattacks has led to the imposition of a heightened security alert across the Gulf region. Governments have issued widespread safety warnings, urging citizens to remain cautious and stay informed about the evolving security situation.