Iranian Drone Strike Disrupts Kuwait International Airport
Airports in Kuwait, Iraq, Bahrain, the UAE, and Iran, including those with military roles, have been targets of recent attacks.
On June 3, 2026, Iranian forces attacked Kuwait’s main airport with drones. The strike resulted in one death and over 60 injuries among passengers and staff, reported Kuwaiti authorities.
The assault also led to the closure of a terminal that had recently reopened, demonstrating the impact of Middle Eastern conflicts on aviation.
Kuwaiti military officials stated that the drones caused significant damage to Terminal 1 at the Kuwait International Airport. This terminal had been used by Kuwaiti and U.S. air forces and served civilian purposes.
In a report released Wednesday, Kuwaiti health officials described the airport as a major emergency site. More than 25 ambulances responded, and doctors conducted seven emergency surgeries.
Verified video footage shows flames and smoke inside the terminal.
The targeted terminal was hit after reopening for travelers following closure due to ongoing conflict. Passengers will be directed to another terminal, officials said.
The Kuwait airport has experienced drone strikes previously and is one of several civilian airports impacted, including those functioning as military bases.
In Iraq, Erbil International Airport, hosting U.S. forces, was attacked by Iran in February and March. Civilian airports, such as Baghdad’s, have faced similar drone and missile strikes.
Meanwhile, airports in Bahrain and the UAE, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have also suffered attacks. The Mehrabad Airport in Tehran was targeted by Israeli strikes, reported Iranian state media.
The conflict has disrupted travel in the Gulf region, prompting airlines to cut schedules and raise ticket prices due to increased jet fuel costs caused by the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz shipping route.
British Airways has suspended flights to multiple destinations, including Dubai and Tel Aviv, until October 25.
Leo Sands serves as a correspondent for The New York Times Breaking News Hub, based in London.