Multiple Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, have raised their security threat levels after the United States launched precision strikes on three key Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend.

The coordinated U.S. military operation targeted Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities in what President Donald Trump called a “spectacular military success.” While the strikes were aimed solely at strategic infrastructure, Gulf states fear potential retaliatory action that could destabilize the broader region.

In response, air defense systems have been activated, and military patrols along key borders and oil installations have been intensified.

“We are taking all necessary steps to protect our national security and infrastructure,” a senior Saudi defense official told reporters. “The situation remains fluid, and we are coordinating closely with our allies.”

Oil prices spiked nearly 7% overnight, reflecting growing concerns over potential disruptions to shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes.

Iran has vowed to respond to the strikes "at a time and place of its choosing," raising alarms in capitals across the Persian Gulf. Regional analysts warn that proxy groups aligned with Tehran could target U.S. assets or allied nations in the Gulf as part of a broader retaliation strategy.

The U.S. State Department has issued updated travel advisories for the region, urging American citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iraq, Lebanon, and parts of the Gulf.

Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate are reportedly underway, but for now, the Gulf remains on edge as tensions between Washington and Tehran reach a dangerous new high.