Iranian rockets struck a luxury hotel in Bahrain’s capital as multiple explosions rock Gulf region amid rising tensions.
Explosions in Bahrain and Dubai
Explosions were recorded in Manama by foreign agency correspondents. Footage shows damaged facades and smoke above the hotel complex. The Crown Plaza Manama, a premium property located in the business district, is frequently chosen by foreign guests and international corporate staff.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Bahrain announced it is monitoring “confirmed reports” of an attack and warned American citizens against staying in hotels in Manama, stating that hotels could become targets. Bahraini authorities reported damage to aviation infrastructure, with Manama airport operating on a limited basis.
Regional Security Concerns
The warning was not accidental. In the Persian Gulf region, many facilities of this class are located near financial districts, embassies, and strategic installations. In practice, this means that tourist infrastructure is becoming an element of political pressure.
On the same day, incidents occurred in Dubai. According to local services, the Fairmont The Palm hotel complex on Palm Jumeirah island was hit. Four people were injured. The fire department brought the fire under control, but part of the building requires structural reinforcement.
Impact on Regional Infrastructure
Media reports also mentioned damage near Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s largest airports. Passengers were evacuated from part of the terminal. Air traffic was suspended, and flights were redirected to other regional ports.
Information also emerged about an incident near the Burj Al Arab hotel. Authorities did not confirm direct hits to the structure but admitted that fragments of downed objects fell in the coastal area.
Changing Regional Risk Assessment
Dubai has so far been perceived as a relatively safe point on the regional map. Attacks on tourist facilities change the risk assessment and affect the aviation and energy sectors. Temporary closure of Gulf airspace caused disruptions to global air traffic.
Explosions were also recorded in Kuwait. Local media reported about the interception of missiles by air defense systems. Infrastructure damage occurred in several locations, including transport facilities. According to available information, there are no reports of fatalities.
International Response and Warnings
Kuwait, like Bahrain and the UAE, hosts US military bases. The US Embassy in Amman ordered staff to avoid the embassy compound due to the risk of attack. The day before, the Jordanian army intercepted several Iranian missiles passing over the country’s territory.
The British Foreign Office called on citizens in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to remain in safe places. Travel to these countries was advised against except in absolutely necessary situations.
A Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman Maciej Wewiór reported that there is no information about injured Polish citizens. He called for avoiding travel to the Middle East until the situation stabilizes and recommended considering leaving the region by means other than air travel if possible.
