The QIR threatens US troops in the UAE following attacks on Hark Island

Following the attack, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) informed the authorities of the United Arab Emirates that US facilities and bases in the region could become ‘legitimate targets’ for retaliatory strikes. This was reported by Al Jazeera.

This followed a statement by US President Donald Trump that American forces had carried out large-scale strikes on Iranian military facilities on the island of Kharg, which is a key hub for Iranian oil exports.

According to Trump, during the operation, the US military ‘completely destroyed’ a number of Iranian military targets. He also warned that the island’s oil infrastructure could be the next target if Iran continues to block shipping in the Persian Gulf.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation was a large-scale, high-precision strike. As a result, over 90 military sites were hit, including missile depots, sea mine storage facilities and other military infrastructure. Meanwhile, the island’s oil facilities were not damaged during the attack.

Kharq Island, located in south-western Iran, is a key hub for energy exports — over 90% of Iran’s oil exports pass through it.

The conflict between Iran, the US and Israel has been ongoing since 28 February 2026. According to Al Jazeera, since the start of hostilities in the region, at least:

• 1,444 people in Iran

• 773 in Lebanon

• 14 in Israel

• 26 in Iraq

• 11 US military personnel

Casualties have also been reported in the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the war with Iran is entering a ‘decisive phase’. According to him, the US-led international coalition will continue operations against Iranian military targets for as long as necessary.

Meanwhile, Gulf states are reporting attacks by Iranian missiles and drones. In particular, the UAE stated that in a single day it intercepted nine ballistic missiles and 33 drones launched from Iranian territory.

The conflict has already affected the global energy sector. Iran has significantly restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supplies pass.

Experts warn that further escalation could trigger a sharp rise in energy prices and exacerbate global economic instability.