Gulf Tensions Escalate; Vatican Envoy Urges Dialogue and Prayer for Peace

At least five people have been killed in Gulf states since February 28, as Iranian strikes targeted parts of the Arabian Peninsula, according to a report by Vatican News.

The casualties, all foreign nationals, were reported in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. New explosions were heard on March 2 in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Manama. In Kuwait, thick smoke was seen rising from the United States embassy following what authorities described as a drone attack. No deaths were reported in the embassy incident, though damage and a fire were confirmed.

In an interview with Vatican News, Archbishop Eugene Nugent, Apostolic Nuncio to Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, described the situation as worsening.

“The situation is dramatic and worsening day by day,” he said, recounting a night marked by explosions beginning at 2:00 a.m. and continuous sirens. He confirmed reports that two American military aircraft were shot down near the Ali al Salem air base in Kuwait, an installation he visits regularly to celebrate Mass.

“We are trying to remain calm, but it is somewhat frightening,” he said, noting that the apostolic nunciature in the Shaab district has not sustained damage. Military bases, airports, and key infrastructure have been the primary targets, including Terminal 1 of Kuwait International Airport, which was reportedly struck on the first day of hostilities.

The conflict has affected countries that have long promoted interreligious dialogue and coexistence. Archbishop Nugent said the outbreak of war on February 28 came as a surprise amid ongoing negotiations.

He noted that appeals for peace from Pope Leo during the Sunday Angelus were widely shared in the region, along with a message from Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, calling for prayer and solidarity.

Asked about the role of diplomacy, Archbishop Nugent said Church representatives remain in contact with civil authorities and members of the diplomatic corps to encourage dialogue.

“Once a war begins, no one ever knows when it will end,” he said. “A long war benefits no one, especially in a region already marked by many conflicts.”

He expressed hope that diplomatic initiatives, including possible talks involving Iran and the United States, could open space for negotiation. “We must try dialogue at every level. Diplomacy is the only way to put an end to this war,” he said.

Recalling Pope Francis’ 2022 visit to Bahrain, during which the pontiff described war as “a dramatically childish scenario,” the nuncio said those words now appear prescient.

“They are powerful words that speak to everyone,” he said, emphasizing the need to seek common ground after centuries of conflict in the region.

The escalation coincides with the Christian season of Lent and the Muslim observance of Ramadan. Archbishop Nugent said both communities are engaged in fasting and prayer.

“Christians and Muslims are both in a time of fasting and prayer. Let us implore God to grant us the gift of peace,” he said.

Church activities in the affected countries continue with adjustments. Some parishes remain open, while others have limited services. At the nunciature in Kuwait, Mass is celebrated daily, and the Rosary is prayed each afternoon for peace.

Archbishop Nugent also highlighted devotion to Our Lady of Arabia, a Marian title venerated by Catholics in the region. He noted that Mary is also honored in Islam.

“In this dramatic moment, we pray to the Virgin, Queen of Peace,” he said, expressing hope that her intercession would guide efforts toward reconciliation.