ISTANBUL

Missile and drone attacks struck four Gulf countries early Thursday as the regional conflict tied to the Israel-US war on Iran entered its 27th day, according to official statements.

Saudi Arabia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed 33 drones over the kingdom's Eastern Province, announcing the development in posts on US social media company X.

Civil defense teams in Bahrain contained a fire at a facility in Muharraq governorate following what the Interior Ministry described as "Iranian aggression," with no injuries reported. Sirens were sounded twice, the ministry said, urging residents to remain calm, move to safe locations, and follow official instructions.

The United Arab Emirates said its air defenses responded to missile and drone attacks launched from Iran, noting that sounds heard across parts of the country were the result of intercepting ballistic missiles and drones.

Kuwait's Defense Ministry said its air defenses intercepted "hostile" missile and drone attacks, cautioning that explosion sounds may be heard during interception operations and urging the public to heed official safety instructions.

National Guard spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jadan Fadel Jadan said two drones were shot down in areas under Kuwaiti protection, without disclosing the locations. The action was part of ongoing efforts to bolster security, safeguard vital sites, and neutralize potential threats, he said.

Regional escalation has continued to flare since the US and Israel launched a joint offensive on Iran on Feb. 28, so far killing over 1,340 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, along with Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and damage to infrastructure while disrupting global markets and aviation.

* Writing by Mohammad Sio in Istanbul