At least one person has been killed and dozens injured in drone strikes on Kuwait airport, which Iran initially claimed as retaliation for US attacks on an Iranian oil tanker and island – but a leading Iranian academic has now denied Tehran's involvement.
Iran's state media said the attack was a response to earlier US strikes on an Iranian oil tanker and an island, according to BBC reports. However, Foad Izadi, a professor of political studies at Tehran University, told Channel 4 News: 'Iran is not responsible for the Kuwait airport attack.'
“At least one killed and dozens hurt in Kuwait airport drone strikes; Iran first claimed responsibility then a Tehran professor denied it. Tensions escalate.”
The conflicting statements have deepened confusion over who carried out the strikes. The incident marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, coming after months of volatile confrontations between Iran and US-backed forces in the Gulf.
Kuwait, a key Western ally in the Gulf, has not yet attributed blame, but the attack has raised fears of wider instability. The UK Foreign Office has not commented, but the conflict could impact British military bases in the region and Gulf oil supplies, which affect UK fuel prices.
The professor's denial may be an attempt to distance Iran from retaliatory actions that could provoke further US or Israeli strikes. Meanwhile, the US has not confirmed the earlier attacks on Iranian assets that Iran cited as provocation.
Next steps are unclear. Kuwait will likely pursue a diplomatic response at the United Nations, and Gulf states may increase security measures. The UK government will assess threats to its personnel and interests in the region.
What This Means For You - Travellers: UK nationals in Kuwait should follow Foreign Office advice and avoid the airport area. Flights may be disrupted. - Drivers: Any disruption to Gulf oil supplies could push UK petrol prices higher, as seen after previous regional flare-ups. - Workers: British contractors and military personnel based in the Gulf should review security protocols. - Investors: Oil price volatility may affect pension funds and energy stocks held by UK savers.