Explosions were reported in Riyadh following earlier blasts in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, as tensions escalate across the Middle East after joint strikes on Iran by Israel and the United States. According to AFP, the sounds of explosions in the Saudi capital have heightened fears of a widening regional conflict.
Qatar issued nationwide mobile alerts urging residents to remain indoors and avoid sensitive locations. Civil aviation authorities suspended flights in Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates as a precautionary measure. Emergency sirens were also activated in Kuwait and Jordan amid growing security concerns.
The crisis began after Israel and the United States launched coordinated pre-emptive strikes on Iranian targets. The Israeli military confirmed ongoing missile operations, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guards responded with drone and missile attacks aimed at Israel. Air defense systems were activated in both countries, with reports of explosions in multiple Iranian locations, including Kharg Island.
Israeli authorities urged civilians to seek shelter as sirens sounded across several cities. Iranian officials condemned the strikes as violations of international law, while Russia criticized the United States. Regional leaders have expressed concern that continued escalation could destabilize the broader Middle East.
