The King Fahd Causeway Authority said movements across the 25-kilometer bridge, the only road link between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, were halted in response to security alerts issued through the kingdom’s early warning systems.

Saudi Arabia’s defense ministry said it had intercepted ballistic missiles aimed at the Eastern Province, without providing further details on the origin or scale of the attack.

The causeway is a critical transport and economic corridor linking Bahrain host to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet to the Arabian Peninsula, and its closure underscores rising regional risks tied to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

The development comes as Donald Trump has set a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and agree to a ceasefire, warning of potential strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including bridges and power facilities, if demands are not met.

Regional tensions have intensified in recent days, with missile interceptions reported across Gulf states and increased security measures implemented to protect critical infrastructure and civilian areas.

Iran’s central military command rejected the ultimatum, with General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi describing Trump’s warning as destabilizing and vowing retaliation. “The gates of hell will open for you,” he said, echoing the language used by the U.S. president in recent statements.

Authorities in Abu Dhabi said multiple fires broke out at the Borouge Petrochemicals facility in Ruwais after debris from intercepted projectiles struck the site. Operations at the plant, a joint venture involving Abu Dhabi National Oil Co., were suspended pending damage assessment, with no injuries reported.

The UAE Defense Ministry said its air defence systems were actively engaging missile and drone threats, without specifying their origin. In Bahrain, Bapco Energies reported that a storage tank caught fire following an attack, though the blaze was later contained and no casualties were recorded.

In Kuwait, a fire erupted at the Shuwaikh oil sector complex, which houses key energy infrastructure including the headquarters of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation. State media reported material damage and the shutdown of two power and water units, with no casualties.

The Israeli military said missiles launched from Iran targeted its territory, while also reporting a separate missile fired from Yemen, marking the fifth such launch since the start of the conflict. Air defence systems were activated to intercept incoming threats.

The escalation underscores the widening scope of a conflict that began with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Tehran on February 28 and has since spread across the region. Iran has maintained restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route, while targeting economic infrastructure in Gulf states it associates with the U.S.-Israeli campaign.

Trump reiterated his ultimatum in a post on Truth Social, warning that time was running out for Iran to comply. He also released a video referencing strikes in Tehran that he said killed multiple Iranian military leaders, though he did not provide details on timing or verification.

Separately, Iranian media reported that U.S.-Israeli strikes in Ardabil province in the country’s northwest killed three people and wounded three others, citing a local official.

Iran’s military command said Iraqi vessels would be allowed to transit the Strait of Hormuz despite broader restrictions, describing Iraq as exempt from measures imposed on what it termed “enemy countries.”

The 15-member council had been due to vote Friday on a proposal introduced by Bahrain, but the session was deferred, with diplomatic sources citing the observance of Good Friday as the official reason. No new date for the vote has been announced.

The draft resolution, backed by the United States, would permit member states, acting individually or through multinational coalitions, to use “all defensive means necessary” to ensure safe passage through the strait and deter interference with international navigation. The mandate would apply for an initial period of at least six months.

The proposal comes as Iran has effectively constrained traffic through the vital shipping lane in response to U.S.-Israeli military actions, disrupting global energy flows. The strait typically carries around one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, making it a critical artery for global trade.

Bahrain’s UN ambassador Jamal Alrowaiei described the resolution as timely, warning of the wider economic impact of disruptions to shipping. However, the measure faces resistance from key council members, including Russia and China, both of which hold veto power and have expressed concerns that authorizing force could escalate the conflict.

Chinese envoy Fu Cong said such authorization risks legitimizing “indiscriminate use of force,” while Russia has criticized what it views as unilateral approaches to the crisis. France, another permanent member, has signaled cautious support after revisions emphasized the defensive nature of the proposal.

Analysts say the resolution faces significant hurdles. Daniel Forti of the International Crisis Group said it is unlikely to gain approval without broader consensus, particularly if it does not address underlying political drivers of the conflict.

Separately, Donald Trump said countries facing fuel shortages should secure their own supplies in the region, adding that U.S. forces would not intervene on their behalf.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned against any “provocative action” at the Security Council, cautioning that further steps could intensify the situation.The draft reflects rare consideration of force authorization by the council, underscoring the severity of the disruption to global energy markets and maritime security.

Iran’s military renewed its warning on Sunday, saying it would target energy, information technology and desalination facilities linked to the United States and Israel if its own infrastructure continued to be hit.

The statement, issued by the Khatam Al-Anbiya operational command and carried by Fars news agency, followed a 48-hour ultimatum from U.S. President Donald Trump to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes on Iranian power plants.

The threats mark a rare escalation into water systems, which have historically been less frequent targets in warfare. However, recent incidents suggest a shift. Bahrain said an Iranian drone strike on March 8 damaged a desalination plant, though authorities reported no disruption to supply.

Iran, in turn, accused the United States of striking a desalination facility on Qeshm Island that supplies dozens of villages, calling it a dangerous precedent. Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi said multiple water transmission and treatment facilities had been hit, damaging critical supply networks.

Analysts warn that targeting such infrastructure could significantly widen the conflict. Water economist Esther Crauser-Delbourg said earlier this month that attacks on water systems risk triggering “a war far more enormous” than the current confrontation.

The Middle East’s dependence on desalination heightens the stakes. According to World Bank data, water availability in the region is roughly one-tenth of the global average, making engineered water supply systems essential.

The region accounts for about 42% of global desalination capacity, with Gulf states relying heavily on the technology for drinking water. Desalinated water supplies around 42% of demand in the United Arab Emirates, 70% in Saudi Arabia, 86% in Oman and 90% in Kuwait, based on a 2022 report by the French Institute of International Relations.

Large urban centres such as Dubai and Riyadh depend on uninterrupted operation of these plants. A U.S. intelligence assessment cited in earlier diplomatic communications warned that disruption of desalination systems could have more severe consequences than the loss of any other major industry in the region.

Desalination plants face multiple risks in a conflict environment, including direct missile or drone strikes, power outages and contamination of intake water from oil spills.

Operators have moved to strengthen protection. Philippe Bourdeaux, a regional executive at French utility Veolia, said access controls around facilities had been reinforced and authorities in some countries had deployed missile defence systems near major plants.

Facilities are often interconnected, allowing some redistribution of supply if one site is damaged. Most also maintain reserves equivalent to two to seven days of consumption, providing a limited buffer against short-term disruptions.

Direct attacks on desalination infrastructure have been relatively rare. Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have previously targeted such facilities in Saudi Arabia, while coalition strikes have hit water systems in Yemen. Israeli operations have also affected water infrastructure in Gaza, according to conflict monitoring data.

Broader targeting of water systems dates back to the 1991 Gulf War, but experts say the current scale of dependence on desalination makes the risks more acute.Prolonged outages could trigger severe consequences, including water rationing and population displacement from major cities.

Disruptions would also affect industries reliant on water, including tourism, manufacturing and data centres, amplifying the economic fallout of the conflict.

Recent attacks on oil and gas infrastructure have already driven up prices, raising concerns about inflation, trade disruptions and broader economic slowdown across both advanced and emerging markets.

Across Europe, memories of the economic fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war are shaping concerns about a fresh energy shock.

Germany, with its industry-heavy economy, is particularly exposed to higher energy costs. Although manufacturing activity has shown signs of stabilisation after a prolonged downturn, rising input costs and weaker global demand could weigh on exports. While Berlin has introduced stimulus measures, fiscal constraints may limit further support.

Italy faces similar vulnerabilities, given its large manufacturing base and relatively high dependence on oil and gas in its energy mix.In United Kingdom, electricity prices are closely tied to gas costs, which have risen sharply since the conflict began.

While a price cap may soften the immediate impact on households, economists warn it could lead to prolonged high borrowing costs and strain public finances.

Japan remains highly vulnerable due to its reliance on imported energy, sourcing around 95% of its oil from the Middle East. Nearly 90% of these supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making supply disruptions a critical risk.

The impact is compounded by a weak yen, which increases the cost of imports and adds to inflationary pressures affecting food and household goods.

In the Gulf, the conflict is expected to have a direct economic impact. While higher oil prices would typically boost revenues, disruptions to shipping routes could offset gains if exports are constrained.

Countries such as Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain rely heavily on the uninterrupted flow of hydrocarbons through the Strait of Hormuz.

Any sustained blockage could hinder their ability to access global markets.The conflict could also affect remittance flows from expatriate workers, a key source of income for many households in the region.

Among large emerging economies, India is particularly exposed. It imports about 90% of its crude oil and nearly half of its liquefied petroleum gas, with a significant share transported via the Strait of Hormuz.

Higher energy prices could widen India’s trade deficit, fuel inflation and complicate monetary policy, especially if global financial conditions tighten in response to the crisis.

As energy markets remain volatile, the extent of the economic impact will depend on the duration of the conflict and the degree of disruption to global supply chains.

In comments shared in a video that resurfaced online, the minister said “anyone here who is more loyal to Iran than to Bahrain should rely on Allah and leave,” adding that those who prioritise ties to Iran should “leave and settle down” there. The remarks come as Bahrain and neighbouring Gulf countries face continued missile and drone attacks from Iran in a conflict that escalated following tensions with the United States on Feb. 28.

Iran has launched strikes not only on Israel but also on multiple Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, according to official statements and regional reporting. The attacks have targeted both military and civilian infrastructure across the region. Bahrain has reported damage to sites including areas near the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama, underscoring the proximity of strategic assets to the conflict.

The United Arab Emirates has also reported sustained strikes, with its defence ministry citing hundreds of missiles and drones launched since late February. The widening scope of the conflict has raised concerns among Gulf governments about both external threats and internal vulnerabilities.

The minister’s remarks follow heightened concern among Gulf authorities over domestic security and alleged links between Iran and networks operating within the region. Regional security reporting has pointed to concerns about covert cells providing intelligence or operational support, including relaying coordinates or documenting strike locations.

Bahraini authorities have long accused Iran of backing militant groups and fomenting unrest in the kingdom. The issue of national loyalty has remained a sensitive topic in Bahrain, particularly during periods of heightened regional tension.

Bahrain has experienced episodes of unrest in the past, and officials have repeatedly emphasised national unity during times of geopolitical strain. Since the outbreak of hostilities, Gulf states have tightened security measures and reinforced public messaging as they respond to the expanding conflict, which has disrupted energy flows and heightened geopolitical risks across the region.

The message was delivered in Riyadh to Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji by Bahraini Ambassador Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al-Khalifa, reflecting the warm, respectful and forward-looking relationship between the two brotherly nations.

The meeting celebrated the continued strength of Saudi-Bahraini ties, emphasizing their mutual determination to build on decades of collaboration, unity and shared vision for the Gulf region’s growth, security and prosperity.

Both officials engaged in meaningful discussions highlighting successful diplomatic exchanges, ongoing joint initiatives and new opportunities for bilateral development that align with each country’s long-term national goals.

Saudi Arabia and Bahrain acknowledged the exceptional progress made through consistent cooperation, noting that the foundation of their relationship is built on trust, close coordination and a commitment to regional stability and advancement.

The message conveyed from Bahrain’s leadership reinforced the importance of maintaining an active, dynamic partnership that benefits their citizens and sets a positive example for cooperation across the Gulf.

During the discussions, both sides explored ways to expand strategic collaboration in areas such as economic investment, security coordination, trade development, digital innovation and cultural exchange.

They emphasized that comprehensive cooperation remains crucial for shaping a stronger, more resilient and interconnected region capable of meeting global challenges with unity and confidence.

The positive diplomatic engagement highlighted the value both nations place on their shared history and the promising future they are committed to building together in pursuit of stability, development and progress.

Saudi Arabia expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s dedication to strengthening relations, further confirming that aligned visions and mutual respect underpin the success of their ongoing partnership.

Economic cooperation took center stage as officials explored enhanced investment flows, large-scale development projects and business opportunities that create sustainable growth and align with the economic transformation plans of both nations.

By integrating economic ambitions and sharing expertise, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain aim to accelerate innovation, attract global investments and improve the well-being of their people through future-focused initiatives.

The meeting also underlined the importance of continued coordination within the Gulf Cooperation Council, which remains an essential platform for building unity, supporting shared priorities and reinforcing collective security across the region.

Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to contributing actively to GCC goals, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in achieving long-term regional strength.

The exchange of the message between leaders highlighted the spirit of fraternity that defines Saudi-Bahraini relations, representing not only diplomatic communication but a reaffirmation of shared cultural values, strategic alignment and genuine friendship.

Officials expressed confidence that renewed communication between leaders will encourage more collaboration, inspire new partnerships and support peace, cooperation and prosperity throughout the Gulf.

Saudi Arabia and Bahrain continue to serve as key pillars of regional stability, demonstrating how strong diplomatic relationships can promote economic growth, strengthen resilience and ensure security in an increasingly interconnected world.

Their commitment to mutual development plays a vital role in shaping the Gulf region’s future, with cooperation seen as essential for navigating global advancements and challenges.

As both countries pursue ambitious national visions, the reinforcement of diplomatic ties ensures that their shared journey remains focused on progress, collaboration and the well-being of their people across all fields.

This latest message exchange stands as a testament to the deeply rooted friendship between the two nations and their determination to build a future defined by unity, strength and shared achievement.

Representing Saudi Arabia at the high-profile international security conference, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Al-Khuraiji attended the opening session on Saturday, where leaders, diplomats, and policy experts gathered to discuss some of the most pressing global and regional challenges.

Now in its 21st edition, the Manama Dialogue has become one of the most influential platforms for security and foreign policy discussions in the Middle East.

It provides an opportunity for world leaders, ministers, and strategists to engage in constructive dialogue, share perspectives, and explore collective solutions to achieve lasting peace, stability, and prosperity. The Kingdom’s active participation underscores its role as a leading voice for diplomacy, multilateral cooperation, and regional development.

During the conference, Al-Khuraiji emphasized Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for dialogue and partnership as essential tools for resolving global challenges.

He highlighted that the Kingdom’s foreign policy, guided by Vision 2030, prioritizes peace, cooperation, and economic progress across the region.

He also noted that Saudi Arabia continues to work closely with its allies and international organizations to promote regional stability and encourage peaceful conflict resolution through diplomacy and dialogue.

On the sidelines of the event, Al-Khuraiji met with Anne-Claire Legendre, adviser to the French president on Middle East and North Africa affairs.

The meeting reflected the close and historic relationship between Saudi Arabia and France. Both sides discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations, deepen strategic cooperation, and address shared regional and international priorities.

They also reviewed recent global developments and reaffirmed their mutual commitment to stability and constructive engagement in the region.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing coordination between Riyadh and Paris in various sectors, including defense, economic investment, cultural exchange, and clean energy initiatives.

These discussions align with Saudi Arabia’s broader diplomatic strategy of fostering strong partnerships with global allies to advance common goals and sustainable development.

The Manama Dialogue featured participation from a wide range of regional and international representatives, including foreign ministers, national security advisers, and senior policymakers.

Topics of discussion included regional security architecture, international cooperation on counterterrorism, maritime security, and energy stability.

The event also emphasized the importance of diplomacy in addressing global challenges such as climate change, conflict prevention, and humanitarian relief efforts.

Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the dialogue reflects its growing role as a key player in shaping global and regional policy discussions.

Under the leadership of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom continues to champion initiatives that promote dialogue over division, stability over conflict, and development over stagnation.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a diplomatic hub, hosting and participating in major international conferences aimed at fostering cooperation between nations.

Its contributions extend beyond security and politics to include global humanitarian aid, sustainable energy transition, and cultural exchange.

These initiatives embody the Kingdom’s forward-looking approach, which seeks to position Saudi Arabia as a bridge between East and West, facilitating mutual understanding and collaboration.

Al-Khuraiji’s presence at the Manama Dialogue reaffirmed the Kingdom’s dedication to constructive diplomacy and partnership. His participation highlighted Saudi Arabia’s balanced and pragmatic foreign policy, which prioritizes peace, security, and economic growth not only for the Kingdom but for the entire region.

The Kingdom’s message at the conference was clear: cooperation and dialogue remain the foundation for a stable and prosperous future.

By engaging with international partners and contributing to discussions on critical issues, Saudi Arabia continues to demonstrate its leadership role in advancing peace and development in the Middle East and beyond.

The Manama Dialogue 2025 once again proved to be an important platform for building trust and strengthening relationships among nations.

For Saudi Arabia, it served as another opportunity to reaffirm its vision of a peaceful and interconnected world built on respect, collaboration, and shared prosperity.

During the meeting, both leaders emphasized their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting the strong historical and strategic partnership that unites Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Discussions focused on enhancing economic, political, and cultural collaboration to serve the aspirations of their leaderships and citizens, as well as advancing joint initiatives that promote regional stability and prosperity.

The two sides also exchanged perspectives on key regional and international developments, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue and coordination in addressing global challenges and fostering peace and sustainable development in the region.

Earlier, Prince Faisal arrived in Manama to chair the meeting of the Executive Committee of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council — a vital platform that enhances bilateral cooperation and aligns strategic projects between the two nations. He was received by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Abdullatif Al-Zayani, and Saudi Ambassador to Bahrain, Nayef bin Bandar Al-Sudairy.

The meeting brought together senior Saudi officials, including Walid Al-Samaeel, Director General of the Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mohammed Al-Yahya, Advisor to the Minister; and Engineer Fahad Al-Harthi, Head of the Working Groups of the General Secretariat of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council.

The discussions underscored the shared vision of both Kingdoms to continue building on their strong partnership and explore new avenues of collaboration that support growth, innovation, and long-term regional unity. Both leaders expressed confidence that their joint efforts would further strengthen Gulf cooperation and reinforce the longstanding bonds of friendship between the two nations.

The meeting reflected the unwavering commitment of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to deepening bilateral relations, fostering economic and diplomatic advancement, and working together to achieve common goals that benefit the Gulf region as a whole.

The visit highlighted the strong collaboration between the two countries in enhancing diplomatic skills and administrative efficiency. Sheikha Muneera Al-Khalifa, director general of the Bahraini academy, underscored the value of exchanging expertise and experiences in diplomatic training, as well as adopting innovative digital solutions to streamline administrative processes.

During the meeting with Nasser Sabeeh Al-Sabeeh, Kuwait’s assistant foreign minister at the Saud Al-Nasser Al-Sabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute, both sides reaffirmed their ongoing partnership in developing high-quality training programs. Discussions focused on workshops, strategic initiatives, and programs designed to strengthen the competencies and efficiency of employees at their respective ministries of foreign affairs.

The exchange also showcased the latest digital platforms implemented in the diplomatic sector, emphasizing the integration of technology to improve workflow, enhance efficiency, and elevate the quality of diplomatic services.

Al-Sabeeh praised the Bahraini academy for its pivotal role in modernizing diplomatic training, noting that such collaboration ensures personnel are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the evolving demands of international diplomacy.

The visit reflects the shared vision of Kuwait and Bahrain to foster innovation, professional excellence, and strategic partnerships within the diplomatic field, reinforcing their leadership in the region’s diplomatic education and training landscape.