US, Gulf countries condemn Iran's 'indiscriminate and reckless' attacks across region

WASHINGTON

The US, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on Sunday strongly condemned Iran's “indiscriminate and reckless” missile and drone attacks across the region.

"These unjustified strikes targeted sovereign territory, endangered civilian populations, and damaged civilian infrastructure," the countries said in a joint statement.

Iran's actions represented a "dangerous escalation" and endangered civilian populations, the countries said.

"We stand united in defense of our citizens, sovereignty and territory and reaffirm our right to self-defense in the face of these attacks.

"We remain committed to regional security and commend the effective air and missile defense cooperation that has prevented far greater loss of life and destruction," they added.

Since Saturday morning, Israel and the US have carried out strikes on Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and many top security officials.

Iran in response launched drone and missile attacks on Israel and US assets in the region that prompted many Gulf states to shut their airspace.