Iranian forces have expanded their missile and drone campaign to deliberately target U.S.-aligned military installations inside the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, while Iranian officials publicly mocked recent Pentagon statements on the progress of the war. The mockery included satirical broadcasts on state TV.

Although Gulf air defenses intercepted the bulk of incoming threats, several projectiles penetrated and caused localized damage, marking a clear broadening of the battlefield beyond Iran and Israel. Repair crews are working to restore affected sites quickly.

Tehran’s foreign ministry spokesperson declared that any nation hosting American bases would face consequences, framing the strikes as legitimate self-defense against aggression. This stance has drawn criticism from international legal experts.

Regional diplomats are now working overtime to prevent further fragmentation of the Gulf alliance and to contain the rapidly widening conflict. Virtual summits are being held to coordinate responses.