Gulf countries condemn Iranian strikes on civilian infrastructure as “war crimes”

Saturday 18 July 2026 - 18:30

By: Sahili Aya

Gulf countries condemn Iranian strikes on civilian infrastructure as “war crimes”

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has condemned Iranian strikes targeting civilian infrastructure in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, describing the attacks as “war crimes” and a serious escalation of regional tensions.

In a statement issued on Saturday, GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi said the targeting of civilian facilities represented a violation of international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Kuwait reports damage to vital energy and water facilities

The latest escalation has placed Gulf infrastructure at the center of a widening confrontation in the Middle East.

Kuwaiti authorities said Iranian strikes caused significant damage to a major oil facility and forced several production units at a power and water desalination plant to shut down. A similar facility had reportedly been hit the previous day.

The attacks occurred as temperatures in Kuwait reached 47°C, increasing concerns over the impact of potential disruptions to electricity and water supplies.

Officials warned that strikes against essential infrastructure threaten civilian safety and could affect critical services relied upon by millions of residents.

Regional conflict expands beyond military targets

The latest developments mark a broader expansion of hostilities, with civilian and strategic facilities becoming increasingly exposed as tensions intensify between Iran and its regional opponents.

Iran has previously focused much of its retaliation on military positions linked to the United States in neighboring countries. However, recent strikes have also affected infrastructure considered essential to civilian life.

The escalation follows renewed attacks involving Iran and the United States, further destabilizing an already fragile regional security environment.

Growing fears over energy and daily life disruption

The possibility of electricity shortages has become a major concern among residents in affected areas.

Ali Mahmoud, an Egyptian worker employed by a Kuwaiti electricity supplier, told AFP that public anxiety was growing as people feared the conflict could spread further and lead to wider disruptions.

Authorities have encouraged residents to reduce electricity consumption and switch off non-essential devices amid concerns over pressure on national infrastructure.

Gulf states call for protection of civilian facilities

The GCC emphasized that civilian installations must remain protected under international law and warned against attacks that could endanger populations beyond immediate military objectives.

As tensions continue to rise, Gulf countries are facing increasing challenges in protecting strategic infrastructure while attempting to prevent further regional destabilization.

The latest strikes have intensified diplomatic pressure for a de-escalation, as governments across the region monitor the potential consequences for energy security, civilian safety and regional stability.