Gulf nations are rapidly depleting their air defense supplies, raising concerns about the impending threat from Iranian missiles and drones. The Middle East has been embroiled in conflict since a joint operation by Israel and the US targeted key Iranian sites, resulting in the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran.

The continuous need to intercept Iranian attacks has strained the US-provided defense systems safeguarding cities in the Middle East. According to an expert from the University of Oslo, the current rate of interceptor usage is unsustainable and may only last another week before facing a shortage.

Reports indicate that the UAE has already intercepted numerous ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones over a span of three days, with drones being more successful in hitting targets. Other Gulf countries like Bahrain have also faced missile attacks and drone strikes.

The challenge lies in the high cost of using interceptors against Iran’s inexpensive drones, depleting resources rapidly. Concerns have been raised about the adequacy of weapons reserves in the face of a prolonged conflict, despite reassurances from US President Donald Trump about the availability of supplies.

US and Israeli forces are targeting Iranian launch infrastructure to disrupt the incoming fire, with numerous systems already neutralized according to intelligence reports. The situation is further complicated by the lack of clarity on the remaining interceptor numbers in the region, potentially exacerbating the defense strain against Iranian threats.