Iran targets West Asian banks, including in Dubai, as military strikes escalate amid accusations against U.S. and Israel.

Iran has declared banks and financial institutions across West Asia, including in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, as legitimate military targets in response to an overnight attack on a Tehran bank linked to Bank Sepah. The Khatam al-Anbiya military command accused the U.S. and Israel of the strike, which killed an unspecified number of employees, and warned civilians to stay at least 1,000 meters from banks. The announcement marks a significant escalation, signaling Iran’s intent to target economic infrastructure tied to the U.S. and Israel. This follows drone attacks on Dubai International Airport and a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, injuring four, and strikes on U.S. diplomatic facilities in Baghdad. The conflict continues to disrupt regional shipping and raise global energy market concerns.