Kuwait declares ‘Security a Red Line’ after foiling terror plot amid regional escalation

2026-03-17 - 20:13

The Kuwait Cabinet has reaffirmed that national security remains a “red line” after security forces successfully dismantled a terrorist cell linked to Hezbollah, in a development that comes amid rising regional tensions and ongoing threats to Gulf stability. During its meeting chaired by Prime Minister HH Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, the Cabinet received a detailed briefing from First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah on the operation that led to the arrest of the group. Authorities revealed that the cell consisted of 14 Kuwaiti nationals and two Lebanese individuals accused of orchestrating a coordinated sabotage plot aimed at undermining the country’s sovereignty and spreading chaos. Security forces seized a cache of weapons, ammunition, drones, encrypted communication devices, and funds, underscoring the scale and seriousness of the planned operations. Officials confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with suspects set to be referred to the competent judicial authorities. The Cabinet strongly condemned the group’s activities, warning that any cooperation with or support for terrorist organizations would be met with firm and decisive action. It praised the vigilance and professionalism of security agencies in thwarting what it described as a dangerous criminal scheme. The developments come against the backdrop of escalating regional tensions, particularly following Iranian attacks targeting Kuwait and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The Cabinet denounced these actions as flagrant violations of sovereignty and international law, stressing Kuwait’s right to defend its territory and protect its citizens. Kuwait has received widespread international support, including expressions of solidarity from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and other world leaders, who condemned the attacks and reaffirmed their backing for Kuwait’s security and stability. At the national level, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah conducted inspection visits to military installations, where he commended the readiness and dedication of the armed forces and other state institutions. These efforts were mirrored by field visits from the Prime Minister to government agencies to ensure operational preparedness and continuity of services under emergency conditions. Coordination with regional allies has also intensified. High-level communications with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain focused on enhancing joint security cooperation and maintaining readiness in light of evolving threats. Meanwhile, the Cabinet reviewed civil defense strategies, emphasizing the importance of integrated action between military and civilian authorities to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure the continuity of essential services. On the diplomatic front, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah outlined Kuwait’s ongoing engagement with international partners to contain regional escalation. He reiterated Kuwait’s condemnation of Iranian aggression during multilateral meetings and stressed the need for coordinated global efforts to restore stability. The Cabinet also expressed solidarity with the United Arab Emirates and Oman following attacks on civilian and economic targets, warning that such actions pose serious risks to regional security and global trade. Domestically, officials addressed the impact of recent incidents, including injuries sustained by emergency personnel, confirming that those affected are in stable condition and receiving care. Authorities also highlighted efforts to support citizens through social initiatives, including a campaign to assist indebted individuals. In a sign of the seriousness of the current situation, the Cabinet announced it will remain in continuous session to monitor developments, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security, stability, and resilience in the face of mounting challenges.