Iran's President Masoud Pajeshkian issued an apology to several Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, expressing regret for the attacks carried out by Iran. On television, he stated that he personally and on behalf of Iran, extends his apologies, promising that there would be no further attacks on Gulf countries unless attacked from their territories. However, only hours after this statement, Iran resumed missile and drone strikes against these nations.

On the afternoon of Saturday, both Qatar and the UAE reported intercepting missiles fired from Iran towards their territories. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) took responsibility for targeting the Al Dhafra airbase in Abu Dhabi, which is known to house a U.S. combat center. Furthermore, Iranian media claimed that they also aimed for a U.S. base situated in Bahrain. Eyewitness accounts from Doha indicated that explosions were heard, signifying active hostilities despite the earlier apology.

The continued aggression from Iran raises questions regarding the sincerity of President Pajeshkian’s apology and reflects the ongoing tensions in the region. The conflicting statements and actions highlight the precarious security situation in the Gulf, exacerbating fears of further escalation of conflict between Iran and its neighboring Gulf states. Observers note that these developments could strain diplomatic relations further and complicate any attempts at regional stability.