Kuwait’s armed forces intercepted 13 ballistic missiles and 17 unmanned aerial vehicles that entered the country’s airspace over populated areas, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defence announced on Wednesday, as regional tensions linked to ongoing Iranian military activity continue to intensify.

Speaking at a press conference, Defence Ministry spokesperson Saud Al-Atwan said the projectiles were detected across several residential areas and were successfully intercepted by Kuwaiti air defence systems. He added that fragments from intercepted missiles and drones fell in multiple locations, though authorities did not immediately provide a detailed assessment of damage.

Al-Atwan stated that the interceptions occurred during what Kuwaiti officials described as continuing Iranian attacks targeting the Gulf state, adding that the country’s armed forces remain on high alert to confront potential threats and preserve national security.

The announcement came hours after authorities temporarily suspended operations at Kuwait International Airport following missile and drone incidents that affected facilities near the airport and prompted emergency security measures.

Later on Wednesday, Kuwait’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced the resumption of all Kuwait Airways flights operating through Terminal 4 (T4), after technical teams and specialized authorities completed field inspections and safety assessments.

The DGCA said the decision to reopen operations followed comprehensive reviews confirming the terminal’s operational readiness and ability to safely accommodate passengers and flights.

Earlier in the day, officials temporarily closed Kuwait’s airspace and suspended flights after missile and drone activity triggered emergency protocols and technical evaluations at airport facilities. Kuwaiti authorities also reported casualties linked to the attacks, with one person killed and 63 others injured, according to preliminary figures.

The developments come amid rising military tensions across the Gulf region, with several states increasing security measures and reinforcing air defence readiness as concerns grow over the potential expansion of regional hostilities. (ILKHA)