Kuwait Oil Chief sheds light on life under Iranian missile attacks as Strait of Hormuz traffic halts

2026-03-08 - 20:07

Kuwait is facing one of the most challenging security situations in its modern history as Iranian missile and drone attacks continue to target the country amid the ongoing regional conflict. Speaking in his first public comments since the outbreak of the war, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Sabah, Chief Executive Officer of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, described the tense atmosphere in the country and the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict. Sheikh Nawaf told the Princeton Alumni Weekly during an interview that the sound of missiles and explosions has become a disturbing reality in recent days. “You can hear missiles flying overhead,” he said, noting that drones have also passed over key energy facilities, including refineries operated by Kuwait’s national oil company. Despite the ongoing attacks, he indicated that Kuwait’s defense systems have managed to intercept many incoming missiles. However, drones remain more difficult to counter due to their smaller size and the cost of deploying sophisticated defense systems against them. Strait of Hormuz Disruptions One of the most serious consequences of the conflict has been the disruption of maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route through which about 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passes. According to Sheikh Nawaf, the strait has not been physically blocked, but threats against shipping have effectively halted traffic in recent days. The absence of insurance coverage for vessels passing through the area has also contributed to the near standstill in shipping activity. Kuwait had anticipated possible disruptions and implemented contingency measures before the escalation. The country stored oil supplies closer to key customers in Asian markets such as Japan and South Korea, and repositioned tankers outside the Gulf region to ensure that exports could continue for a limited period. However, Al-Sabah warned that these measures can only mitigate the impact for a short time, especially as the conflict enters its second week without a clear plan for international naval escorts to guarantee safe passage for tankers. Life in Kuwait Under Tension Daily life in Kuwait City has been significantly affected by the security situation. Schools have shifted to online learning, and the government has instructed most public sector employees to work remotely, limiting office attendance to essential personnel. While businesses and restaurants remain open, public activity has declined noticeably as residents avoid crowded areas amid fears of further attacks. Travel has also been disrupted. Kuwait International Airport remains closed after being struck during the attacks, leaving many travelers stranded. Some residents have resorted to traveling via land to Saudi Arabia before catching international flights. Public Reaction and Regional Concerns Sheikh Nawaf said Kuwaitis are angered by the attacks, particularly because the country is not directly involved in the conflict. Kuwait has long maintained diplomatic relations with regional powers and has emphasized dialogue as the preferred way to resolve disputes. However, he warned that the current escalation risks drawing additional countries into the conflict and could spiral into a broader regional crisis if not contained. Resilience in the Face of Threats Reflecting on Kuwait’s past experiences, including the 1990 invasion during the Gulf War, Al-Sabah said the current situation has revived memories of earlier crises but has also highlighted the resilience of the Kuwaiti people. He noted that many young Kuwaitis have volunteered to support civil defense efforts and assist in emergency response operations, demonstrating national solidarity during a time of heightened tension. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the conflict, Al-Sabah expressed confidence in Kuwait’s longstanding partnerships with its allies, particularly the United States, emphasizing that cooperation will remain essential to safeguarding Kuwait’s security and stability in the challenging period ahead.