Iran launched attacks on major aluminum plants in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the weekend, injuring employees and causing significant damage to the facilities. According to Al Jazeera and The Guardian, these strikes were part of Iran's retaliation against U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iranian military bases, a cancer drug plant in Isfahan, and religious sites like the Grand Husseiniya in Zanjan.
Key Takeaways
Iran launched attacks on major aluminum plants in Bahrain and the UAE, injuring employees and causing significant damage. These strikes were part of Iran's retaliation against U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iranian sites, including military bases, a cancer drug plant, and religious centers. Global aluminum prices surged to four-year highs due to fears of supply disruptions. The conflict has escalated regionally, with Saudi Arabia intercepting drones and Kuwait reporting damage to its international airport.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the missile and drone attacks on aluminum facilities in Bahrain and the UAE. Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) reported that two employees were injured, while Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) stated that six people were injured at its site in Abu Dhabi. The EGA CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban emphasized that the safety of their employees is a top priority.
The conflict has led to a 19% reduction in Alba's production capacity due to supply disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, according to multiple reports. Global aluminum prices have surged to four-year highs, reflecting fears of a potential shortage. The war began on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and has since escalated regionally.
Saudi Arabia intercepted ten drones over the past hours, while Kuwait shot down four drones after air raid sirens sounded in the Gulf nation. According to Reuters, Gulf stock markets ended lower due to fears of a broader Iran-linked conflict. Brent crude futures rose by $4.56, or 4.2%, to $112.57 a barrel on Friday.
The U.S. Central Command confirmed the arrival of 3,500 Sailors and Marines to the Middle East as part of a growing troop presence. Iran threatened to target U.S. and Israeli educational institutions unless attacks on Iranian universities cease. President Trump suggested a deal to end the Iran war could come soon but also renewed his threat to strike Iranian power plants and other civilian infrastructure.
Ukraine signed a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, aiming for technological cooperation and investment in countering drone threats from Iran. The deal comes as Gulf countries face increasing pressure from Iranian missile and drone strikes. Qatar's prime minister held talks with U.S. officials to strengthen strategic ties amid the ongoing conflict.
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