Iran continues to execute attacks on Gulf countries despite enduring over 9,000 military strikes from the United States and Israel. A new report from the "Gulf Research Center" reveals the escalation of Iranian threats, prompting a reassessment of the remaining military capabilities.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have faced more than 5,000 Iranian attacks using ballistic missiles and drones since the outbreak of war between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other. These attacks have primarily targeted vital civilian facilities in the region.
Details of the Attacks
The report indicates that the period from February 28 to March 24, 2026, witnessed a total of 5,061 attacks, including 1,131 ballistic missiles and 3,930 drones. The attacks were distributed across Gulf countries, with the UAE experiencing 2,156 attacks, followed by Saudi Arabia with 953, Kuwait with 807, Qatar with 694, and Bahrain with 429. Oman faced 22 attacks, all carried out by drones.
Despite the military pressures on Iran, the report emphasizes that this does not signify the end of the Iranian threat to Gulf states. Rear Admiral Abdullah Al-Zaydi, Senior Advisor for Defense and Security Studies at the "Gulf Research Center," believes that the current data necessitates a reassessment of the remaining Iranian combat capabilities, particularly those still under the control of the "Revolutionary Guard."
Background & Context
These developments come at a time when the region is witnessing ongoing military escalation, as Tehran continues to respond with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and American interests in the area. U.S. President Donald Trump announced a five-day postponement of targeting energy facilities and infrastructure in Iran, indicating that "key points of agreement" have been reached in indirect communications, a claim denied by Tehran.
The UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed that it intercepted 5 ballistic missiles and 17 drones coming from Iran, reflecting the rising Iranian threats. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of several civilians and military personnel, further escalating tensions in the region.
Impact & Consequences
The report indicates that the Iranian threat to the Strait of Hormuz remains, albeit at a lower pace than before, as the "Revolutionary Guard" retains control over asymmetric capabilities, including naval mines, fast boats, and drones. These tools are designed to disrupt navigation and increase the cost of passage through narrow and sensitive corridors.
Moreover, Iranian threats are not limited to conventional means but extend to targeting maritime and underwater infrastructure, including communication cables and facilities near coastlines. This adds an additional dimension to the risks, given the importance of the Strait of Hormuz as a vital corridor for energy and trade.
Regional Significance
Qatar has reaffirmed its support for diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the ongoing war in the region, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majid Al-Ansari stating that the country supports all diplomatic efforts in this regard. These statements come at a time when the region is experiencing continuous military escalation, increasing the need for effective diplomatic efforts.
In conclusion, it can be said that the military campaign that began on February 28, 2026, has significantly weakened Iranian naval capabilities, but it has not entirely eradicated the "Revolutionary Guard's" ability to threaten Gulf security and the Strait of Hormuz. The region remains on alert, as the current situation requires a coordinated response from Gulf states to address the escalating threats.