Kuwait says Iranian attack hit power, desalination plant causing damage

KUWAIT CITY - Kuwait said an Iranian attack hit a power and water desalination plant on Friday, causing material damage to parts of the facility, the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy said.

It said that emergency and technical teams were responding under contingency plans to maintain operations and secure the site.

The ministry described the strike as a deliberate assault on vital national infrastructure and said initial assessments confirm damage to sections of the plant, though it did not immediately specify the extent of the harm or any disruption to electricity or water supply. No casualties were mentioned in the official statement.

The incident marks the latest escalation in Iran’s sustained campaign of attacks across the Gulf region, which began on February 28 and has already targeted the UAE and other neighbouring countries with ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. Kuwait, like its Gulf neighbours, relies heavily on desalination plants for the vast majority of its fresh water needs, making any damage to such facilities a serious concern for public services and daily life.

Ministry officials stated that emergency teams have been dispatched to the site to contain the damage and restore operations as quickly as possible. Further updates on the operational impact and repair timeline are expected in the coming hours.

The strike comes amid heightened regional tensions and follows recent high-level diplomatic exchanges between Gulf leaders and major powers, including phone calls between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and US President Donald Trump, as well as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Those discussions focused on de-escalation, civilian protection, and threats to maritime security

Analysts note that targeting desalination and power infrastructure represents a dangerous new phase in the conflict, potentially affecting water security and electricity supply for millions in the Gulf. Kuwait has not yet issued a formal request for international assistance, but the government is coordinating closely with regional partners.