Alleged covert UAE strikes on Iran raise Gulf war fears

According to reports, the UAE carried out covert strikes on Iranian targets during the recent regional conflict, including an attack on the Lavan Island refinery. This action is said to have been in response to missile and drone attacks carried out by Iran on UAE facilities. Meanwhile, Kuwait has stated that it detained at least four members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) who were allegedly planning attacks on Kuwaiti-owned Bubiyan Island.

At the same time, reports also suggest that Saudi Arabia conducted some covert military operations, although it continues to maintain contact with Tehran and call for de-escalation. These developments have increased strategic divisions within the Gulf region. Experts warn that if the ceasefire collapses, Gulf countries could be drawn into a wider war, potentially affecting energy supplies, port operations, and overall regional stability. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire is “hanging by a thread” due to Iran’s failure to meet demands over its nuclear programme, adding further uncertainty to an already fragile security situation.

UAE–Iran tensions and Lavan Island strike fuel Gulf instability and Strait of Hormuz risks

UAE military activity inside Iran have added fresh pressure to an already fragile Gulf security situation. According to sources familiar with the matter, UAE forces allegedly used Mirage fighter jets and drones in operations across Iranian territory. The situation has raised concerns because it comes amid wider regional instability linked to strikes and counter-strikes across Gulf states.

According to multiple reports, a fire broke out at the Lavan Island refinery after a strike in early April, affecting oil processing capacity for an extended period. Iran described the incident as an “enemy action,” and tensions escalated soon after. The episode has drawn attention because the refinery is part of key energy infrastructure in the Persian Gulf, where even limited disruption can raise broader regional and global concerns.

Subsequent reports claimed that Iran responded with missile and drone strikes targeting sites in the UAE and Kuwait, although the full scale of damage has not been independently confirmed. Kuwait also reported heightened security activity, including the detention of individuals linked to alleged operations on Bubiyan Island, according to regional sources. Together, these developments have increased fears that isolated strikes could widen into broader regional escalation, putting Gulf energy security and supply chains under pressure.

At the same time, attention has returned to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of global oil flows. Any disruption in this route can quickly impact oil prices and shipping costs worldwide. While diplomatic efforts continue and calls for restraint grow, the mix of reported cross-border operations, energy infrastructure risks, and maritime security concerns has created a volatile environment. For now, Gulf states remain on alert as the risk of miscalculation continues to shape regional stability.

Web Resources on Alleged covert UAE strikes on Iran raise Gulf war fears

1. Guardian.com : UAE’s secret attack on Iran risks drawing Gulf states into the war.
2. Reuters.com : UAE has been secretly carrying out attacks on Iran, WSJ reports.
3. Channel News Asia.com: Saudi Arabia, UAE launched covert attacks on Iran as regional war widened.