Iran’s ambassador to Kuwait has urgently called on Gulf nations to use their full diplomatic influence to prevent a dangerous escalation of the war. This comes as President Trump’s deadline for a deal on the Strait of Hormuz approaches. There is a looming threat of strikes on civilian infrastructure in the region.
Ambassador Mohammad Toutounji urged regional powers to take action, warning that not doing so could lead to disastrous consequences. “We hope that the countries in the region will use all their diplomatic and political capabilities to prevent such a tragedy from befalling the region,” he said, as reported by AFP. The ambassador’s plea occurs amidst a conflicting diplomatic situation. Kuwait has summoned Toutounji for the third time since the war began on February 28. They handed him a formal protest note addressing Iran’s ongoing attacks on Kuwaiti territory, including a strike on fuel tanks at Kuwait International Airport.
Iran’s strikes have caused significant and ongoing damage in Kuwait. Iranian drone attacks have damaged two power and water desalination plants and ignited fires at two oil facilities, although no injuries have been reported. Other recent strikes resulted in a fire at the Shuwaikh Oil Sector Complex and considerable damage to a government office complex. Iranian drones also targeted the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation headquarters, leading to serious material damage and fires at several operational sites.
The ambassador’s plea highlights Iran’s increasingly difficult position. It is carrying out devastating strikes against the very Gulf nations it is asking for mediation. Iran has rejected the latest US ceasefire proposal as Trump’s deadline nears. Both sides continue to exchange missile attacks, and diplomatic channels remain fragile. As the region braces for a potentially catastrophic new phase of the conflict, Toutounji’s appeal emphasizes Tehran’s urgent need for a diplomatic solution, even as its military actions continue to drive away the Gulf partners it is seeking to involve.