MIDDLE EAST ON EDGE: A REGION HOLDING ITS BREATH
Shockwaves rippled across the Middle East today after the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran. Within hours, explosions echoed in Doha and Abu Dhabi, while sirens wailed across Bahrain — home to a major US naval fleet.
TOPSHOT – People run to take shelter after sirens sounded in Tel Aviv on February 28, 2026, following the announcement that Israel had launched a “preemptive strike” on Iran. President Donald Trump urged Iranians on February 28 to take over their government as US forces began a large-scale attack on the country’s military. (Photo by Ilia YEFIMOVICH / AFP)
The UAE and Kuwait confirmed intercepting missiles fired by Iran in retaliation.
Vehicles line up during a traffic block, after Israel and the U.S. launched strikes on Iran, in Tehran, Iran, February 28, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS – THIS PICTURE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
Tension now grips the Gulf as civilians brace for uncertainty, and leaders weigh their next moves.
A woman uses a phone as she looks at the sky after reported Iranian missile attacks, following strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran, in Doha, Qatar, February 28, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem
The region stands at a fragile crossroads — where one spark could reshape the future.
