Iran launched a new wave of missile and drone strikes across the Gulf states on Sunday, March 8, targeting critical infrastructure in Kuwait and Bahrain as the regional conflict entered its second week.

According to authorities, Iranian strikes damaged fuel tanks at Kuwait International Airport and a desalination plant in Bahrain. Kuwait’s interior ministry also confirmed that two border guards were killed “while performing their national duty,” but provided no additional information about the circumstances.

Since the conflict began following large-scale strikes by United States and Israel against Iranian targets, neighbouring Gulf states have borne much of Tehran’s retaliation. According to an AFP tally, at least 16 people, including eight civilians, have been killed across the region. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that Tehran would continue responding if neighbouring countries allowed their territories to be used for attacks against Iran.

The previous day, Pezeshkian had apologised to Gulf states hosting US military bases for Iranian strikes on their territory. Several countries reported new attacks over the weekend, including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait, after explosions were heard earlier in Dubai and Manama.

Kuwait’s military said fuel tanks at the international airport were targeted by a drone strike. The Kuwait News Agency reported that a fire at the airport was quickly brought under control and that no significant injuries were recorded.

The military described the attack as “a direct targeting of vital infrastructure”. Authorities also said debris from interception operations damaged several civilian facilities.

Kuwait’s national oil company later announced a precautionary reduction in crude oil production as the country responded to several missile and drone threats. Officials also said the country’s main social security building was struck, causing material damage, and would remain closed to visitors.