Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Gulf states after a U.S.-Israeli strike killed its supreme leader.

A major escalation in the Middle East conflict began on February 28, 2026, after a U.S.-Israeli strike killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, triggering widespread Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf states. Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and others faced repeated assaults, with civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, including disruptions to global LNG exports and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman coordinated with leaders from Turkey, the UK, and Cyprus, while the UK pledged to deploy additional military assets to the region. International figures, including Macron and Guterres, urged de-escalation amid rising fears of broader war.