Kuwait City: One person was killed after Iranian drones and missiles struck Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday, June 3, causing extensive damage to Terminal 1 and forcing authorities to suspend commercial flight operations.
Kuwait’s General Civil Aviation Authority (DGCA) said the attack severely damaged airport facilities, prompting the suspension of commercial flights and the diversion of incoming aircraft.
The Kuwait Army said it was coordinating with relevant agencies and monitoring developments closely. It added that necessary steps would be taken to protect national security and maintain stability.
Defence Ministry spokesperson Brig Gen Saud Abdulaziz Al-Otaibi said hostile drones targeted the airport’s passenger terminal, triggering emergency response measures and a large-scale security operation.
Emergency and rescue teams were deployed to the site as authorities assessed the damage and worked to secure the airport complex.
The airport had resumed operations on Monday, June 1, following repairs and a phased reopening after earlier disruptions linked to the Iran war.
The strike came amid renewed military tensions between Iran and the United States. On Tuesday, US Central Command said two missiles launched towards Kuwait failed before reaching their target, while several drones aimed at American forces in the country were intercepted.
Wednesday’s attack comes on the 96th day of the American-Israeli war on Iran and marks one of the most significant incidents to affect Kuwait’s civilian infrastructure since the conflict began.
UAE condemns attack
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) condemned the Iranian missile and drone strikes on Kuwait, including the attack on Kuwait International Airport that caused extensive damage to the terminal building and left several people injured.
In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attack as a violation of Kuwait’s sovereignty and a breach of international law. It said the strikes threatened the country’s security, stability and the safety of civilian infrastructure.
The ministry also reaffirmed the UAE’s solidarity with Kuwait and expressed support for measures taken by Kuwaiti authorities to protect the country and maintain stability.
Kuwait Airways resumes limited operations
Kuwait Airways announced the resumption of flight services from Kuwait International Airport through Passenger Terminal 4 (T4) only.
The airline said the decision followed inspections carried out by technical teams and relevant authorities to evaluate the impact of the attack and verify operational safety requirements.
According to the carrier, services through T4 resumed after the necessary measures were implemented to ensure the safe continuation of airport and flight operations.
Arrest over recording missile interceptions
Kuwaiti authorities have detained a person accused of recording and sharing footage of air defence systems responding to incoming missiles during the recent attacks.
In a post on X, the Ministry of Interior said the individual used a mobile phone to capture the videos while driving, which resulted in a road accident.
Officials said the publication of footage showing military installations, defensive operations or security preparedness measures is prohibited due to the potential risks it poses to national security and public safety.
The ministry reiterated its warning against circulating such material and said offenders would face legal consequences under applicable laws.
IndiGo suspends Kuwait services
IndiGo has temporarily halted flights to and from Kuwait until 12 noon on June 4 following the disruption at Kuwait International Airport.
The airline said the move was taken as a precaution while it assesses the evolving situation in coordination with aviation authorities. It noted that passenger and crew safety remains its primary concern.
The carrier said operations would restart once conditions are deemed safe and the necessary flight routes become available. Travellers have been advised to verify their flight status before leaving for the airport.
NBK closes airport branches
The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) announced the temporary closure of its branches at Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1 and Terminal 4 from Wednesday until further notice.
The bank said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of customers and employees following the attack on the airport.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated as more information emerges.
With inputs from Associated Press
