Iran has issued a strong warning to civilians and port workers to evacuate from three major ports in the United Arab Emirates: Jebel Ali, Khalifa, and Fujairah.
The Iranian government has declared these ports as “legitimate targets” in light of escalating tensions in the Gulf region.
This alarming announcement was disseminated through Mizan, the official news agency of Iran’s judiciary, which also claimed, without presenting any supporting evidence, that United States military forces were operating from within these strategic ports. This assertion justifies potential Iranian strikes on these facilities.
In a related incident earlier today, a drone interception caused a fire near Fujairah port, but no casualties or injuries were reported.
The UAE has endured a relentless series of Iranian military actions since February 28, with the country’s Defence Ministry revealing that a staggering total of 1,600 drones, 294 ballistic missiles, and 15 cruise missiles have been launched against its territory. This series of attacks has already resulted in six fatalities and left 141 people injured.
Furthermore, Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency reinforced the evacuation directive, calling on all citizens and personnel located near ports, docks, and other sites where US forces are rumoured to be present to leave immediately to protect their own safety.
These distressing warnings come in the aftermath of a US military strike on Kharg Island, a crucial hub for Iran’s oil exports, which has further heightened tensions and the potential for conflict in the Gulf region. The conflict poses a significant risk to global energy supplies, raising alarms about the possible repercussions for international markets and the stability of energy resources worldwide.
