Missiles intercepted, fighter jets downed and Beirut pounded as Russia signals readiness to step in amid spiraling Middle East escalation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that the escalating attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel risk triggering a large scale war across the Middle East. Foreign media reported that Putin confirmed Russia is prepared to actively intervene for the sake of regional stability, underscoring growing geopolitical tension.
The Kremlin said Putin raised these concerns during telephone conversations with four influential Gulf leaders on March 1st. Following talks with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kremlin stressed that the conflict, which has already affected several Arab states, could have dire consequences if it spreads further. Moscow has consistently condemned both the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the joint US Israeli strikes.
Meanwhile, Gulf nations reported intense defensive operations against Iranian attacks. The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defense stated that its air defence systems intercepted nine ballistic missiles, six cruise missiles and 148 drones. Since the beginning of hostilities, 174 ballistic missiles were reportedly launched at the UAE, with 161 destroyed and 13 falling into the sea. Of 689 Iranian drones activated, 645 were destroyed and 44 shot down. The ministry confirmed three fatalities and 68 minor injuries, along with damage to civilian property.
Qatar also reported significant interceptions. The Qatari Ministry of Defense announced that security forces shot down two SU24 fighter jets that entered its airspace from Iran. Additionally, seven ballistic missiles and five drones targeting various locations were destroyed before reaching their objectives.
The conflict has widened further into Lebanon. The Sri Lankan Embassy in Beirut confirmed ongoing Israeli strikes on Hezbollah positions and evacuated 19 Sri Lankans to safer areas. Reuters footage showed continuous explosions and thick black smoke over southern Beirut. Lebanese state media reported 31 deaths and 149 injuries from Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah controlled suburbs.
