Kuwait condemned the Houthi group’s threats against Saudi shipping, reaffirming support for Riyadh and the need to protect navigation under international law. The Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the Houthis’ allegations and urged the international community to uphold UN Security Council resolutions regarding Yemen and maritime security in the Red Sea.
Kuwait’s Interior Ministry announced the arrest of four individuals linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, accused of attempting a maritime infiltration. Iran condemned the arrests, claiming the individuals were engaged in patrols and accidentally entered Kuwaiti waters. This incident highlights ongoing regional tensions and the complex relationship between Kuwait and Iran.
On May 12, 2026, Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior reported the apprehension of several men attempting to enter by sea, linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. They confessed to plans for hostile operations from Bubiyan Island. The incident underscored ongoing security concerns and the vigilance of Kuwaiti authorities in national defense.
A significant explosion on a tanker off Kuwait’s coast has resulted in an oil spill, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident, reported by the captain, occurred outside territorial waters, raising environmental concerns. Amid escalating US-Iran-Israel tensions, shipping giant Cosco has suspended services to the Gulf.
Kuwait has introduced the Needlefish, the world’s most advanced unmanned surface vehicle (USV), as part of a $213 million maritime surveillance initiative. This cutting-edge vessel, powered by twin marine jet engines, features advanced sensor systems and is designed for missions like intercepting suspicious vessels and pollution detection.
