A series of drone, rocket and missile attacks have targeted key diplomatic and energy locations across the Middle East, raising concerns about escalating regional instability. Get today's headlines by email Explosions were reported near the US Embassy Baghdad early on Tuesday, while separate incidents affected energy infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates and maritime traffic near Oman. Embassy and residential areas hit in BaghdadSecurity sources said at least two explosive drones were launched toward the US embassy compound in Baghdad, with one landing nearby and smoke seen rising from the area. Air defence systems reportedly intercepted a rocket aimed at the same site. Around the same time, a drone strike caused a fire at a luxury hotel inside the heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses diplomatic missions and government buildings. In a separate incident in the al-Jadiriyah district, a strike hit a residential property, killing four people. Initial reports indicated that two of those killed were Iranian advisers linked to Tehran-backed groups, according to security officials. UAE energy facilities targetedFurther south, attacks also struck energy infrastructure in the UAE, highlighting vulnerabilities in the region’s oil and gas sector. A drone attack caused a fire in the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, a strategically important hub for oil storage and transport. Separately, operations at the Shah gas field remained suspended following an earlier strike. Authorities said no injuries were reported in either incident, though the attacks have disrupted activity in one of the country’s key energy regions. Maritime and regional threats escalateElsewhere, a tanker anchored off the coast of Oman reported being struck by an unidentified projectile, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations. While no casualties or environmental damage were recorded, the vessel sustained structural damage. Meanwhile, in Qatar, defence officials said a missile targeting the country had been intercepted. Debris from the interception caused a fire in an industrial area, though no injuries were reported. Growing regional tensionsThe coordinated nature of the incidents underscores rising tensions across the region, with diplomatic sites, energy infrastructure and shipping routes all coming under threat. While no group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks, the strikes follow a pattern of escalating hostilities involving Iran-linked actors and US allies. Authorities across the affected countries have increased security measures as investigations continue into the origins of the attacks. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 17 March 2026
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