Two drones launched by Iran-backed militias operating in Iraq struck Kuwait’s northern border on Friday, causing material damage but no reported casualties, according to the Kuwaiti military. The incident marks a continuation of tensions in the region following the outbreak of the Middle East conflict on February 28.

Since the war began, pro-Iran armed groups have claimed responsibility for frequent attacks on what they describe as “enemy bases” across Iraq and neighboring areas. However, these militias announced the suspension of their operations after a ceasefire took effect. Despite this, Gulf states have continued to summon Iraqi officials in protest over ongoing attacks attributed to Iran-aligned factions, signaling persistent instability along regional borders.

The attack in Kuwait reflects broader security concerns for Gulf nations wary of Iran’s regional influence and military activities. Anwar Gargash, a senior adviser to the UAE president and former foreign minister of state, commented on the difficulties of rebuilding trust with Tehran. Speaking at a conference in France on Friday, Gargash emphasized that trust would take a long time to restore after the extensive missile and drone attacks Iran-backed groups have launched across the Gulf.

“After being targeted with 2,800 missiles and drones, it’s unrealistic to expect immediate reconciliation,” Gargash said. He highlighted that nearly 90 percent of Iranian strikes have been directed at civilian targets and critical infrastructure, including energy facilities, exacerbating the perception of Iran as a strategic threat to the Gulf region.

Gargash also noted that Iran’s posture has led Gulf countries, including the UAE, to reassess their security strategies. He suggested that Israel’s influence in the Gulf is likely to grow as a counterbalance to Iran’s activities. “Tehran has demonstrated that the Arab Gulf states are not a priority in its strategic calculations,” Gargash remarked, underlining the enduring challenges in regional diplomacy and security.

The recent drone attack against Kuwait underscores the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the continued risk posed by Iran-backed militias operating within Iraq. Diplomatic efforts to address these security issues remain ongoing as Gulf states navigate a complex regional environment marked by competing interests and longstanding grievances.