Kuwait: Nation Chooses Peace, Encounters Harsh Consequences

On this solemn occasion, we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of Indian national Santhansa Krishnan, who tragically lost his life while carrying out his professional duties at a power generation and water distillation facility in the State of Kuwait. We convey our heartfelt sympathies to his family and loved ones during this difficult time and wish a swift and full recovery to all those injured in the incident. The loss of innocent life underlines the human cost of instability and reinforces the urgency of restoring peace.

The State of Kuwait maintains a balanced and cautious position on the ongoing conflict in the region. It has consistently opposed escalation and any form of confrontation that leads to destruction and human suffering. Kuwait is not a party to military conflicts between nations; rather, it remains firmly committed to preserving the security and stability of the Gulf, the broader region, and the international community. This principled stance reflects Kuwait’s longstanding belief that dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect must guide international relations.

Kuwait reiterates its strong condemnation of the Iranian aggressions witnessed over the past month against Kuwait, as well as against other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Arab nations. These actions constitute a flagrant violation of Kuwait’s sovereignty and a clear breach of international law, humanitarian principles, and the United Nations Charter. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is not optional - it is a foundational principle of the international system.

In this context, the State of Kuwait affirms its inherent right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. This right is exercised in response to clear and repeated acts of aggression, and always within the framework of international law. Kuwait remains committed to taking all necessary measures to safeguard its territory, citizens, and residents, while avoiding escalation and maintaining a responsible and measured approach.

Kuwait has consistently and transparently communicated to the Iranian authorities that it will not permit its territory or airspace to be used as a platform for launching attacks against Iran. Despite these assurances, hostile actions have continued. Iranian aggression against Kuwait and neighbouring countries has manifested through the launch of ballistic missiles and drones targeting civilian infrastructure. These attacks have resulted in tragic loss of life, destruction of residential areas, and widespread damage to essential facilities.

Critical civilian infrastructure has been directly affected, including Kuwait International Airport, where disruptions to air traffic have impacted both regional connectivity and humanitarian movement. Water reservoirs, energy and power installations, private residences, and seaports have also been targeted - facilities that serve civilian populations and have no connection to military operations. Such actions not only violate international humanitarian norms but also exacerbate instability in an already fragile environment.

The Gulf states remain united in their position: they do not seek to be drawn into broader conflicts and continue to support all efforts aimed at de-escalation and peaceful resolution. They are closely monitoring developments and remain hopeful that ongoing diplomatic initiatives will bring an end to aggression and restore stability. Unity among Gulf nations reflects a shared commitment to peace, security, and collective resilience.

The prolonged continuation of conflict poses grave risks beyond the immediate region. The global economy and international trade are already experiencing strain. Iran’s suspension of maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted critical energy shipments, affecting countries far beyond the Gulf. The resulting volatility in energy markets has translated into tangible hardships, including shortages of essential supplies such as cooking fuel in several regions.

Moreover, rising energy and petrochemical prices threaten to reach unprecedented levels if the conflict persists. Disruptions to fertiliser shipments further compound the problem, placing agricultural cycles at risk in multiple countries. These cascading effects highlight the interconnected nature of today’s global economy, where regional instability can quickly evolve into a worldwide crisis.

It is important to recall that GCC nations have, in the past, stood in solidarity with Iran during times of crisis and have condemned external aggression against it. The current escalation against neighbouring states, therefore, represents a troubling departure from principles of mutual respect and regional cooperation. Such actions erode trust and undermine the foundations of peaceful coexistence.

Kuwait emphasises that continued aggression against GCC and Arab states constitutes a serious threat to regional and international peace and security. The international community must adopt a clear and unified stance in upholding international law and deterring actions that destabilise the region. Silence or inaction in the face of such violations risks normalising behaviour that endangers global stability.

In this regard, the State of Kuwait and its regional partners deeply appreciate the principled position taken by the Republic of India. India’s consistent advocacy for peace, dialogue, and respect for international norms reflects its growing role as a responsible global actor. Its voice carries weight not only in the region but also on the international stage.

Kuwait, alongside GCC nations and Jordan, also values India’s contribution during the emergency session of the United Nations Human Rights Council held in Geneva on March 25, 2026. India’s emphasis on protecting civilians and safeguarding critical infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector, underscores the importance of prioritising humanitarian considerations even amid conflict. Equally significant is the call to ensure the security of global supply chains, which remain vital to economic stability and food security worldwide.

The global community continues to call upon Iran to comply fully with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, which condemns aggression and threats to maritime security, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. Adherence to international obligations is essential for restoring confidence and preventing further escalation.

Kuwait remains steadfast in its belief that dialogue and diplomacy are indispensable in resolving conflicts. Military escalation only deepens divisions and prolongs suffering, whereas constructive engagement offers a path towards sustainable peace. Kuwait therefore urges Iran to cease its unjustified actions against neighbouring countries and to engage in meaningful dialogue that addresses concerns without resorting to violence.

Despite the challenges posed by ongoing aggression, the Government of Kuwait remains committed to ensuring the well-being of all who reside within its borders. Essential services continue to be provided without interruption, and efforts are ongoing to maintain a dignified standard of living for both citizens and residents.

A final word on friendship

The Indian community in Kuwait is not merely a diaspora statistic. They are doctors, engineers, teachers, technicians, and entrepreneurs who have contributed immeasurably to our nation’s growth. Despite the ongoing aggression, the Government of Kuwait remains firmly committed to ensuring the safety, dignity, and welfare of every Indian resident on our soil. They are, and will remain, an honoured part of our society.

But safety cannot be guaranteed in perpetuity by good intentions alone. It requires the aggression to stop.

Kuwait calls on Iran to cease its attacks on the GCC and Arab states — not in the language of ultimatum, but in the language of reason. The path to security in this region does not run through missiles and drones. It runs through dialogue, international law, and the kind of sustained diplomacy that India itself has long championed.

The world is watching. And the world must speak — clearly, collectively, and soon. At this critical juncture, the path forward must be guided by restraint, respect for sovereignty, and a renewed commitment to diplomacy. The stakes are too high — for the region and for the world — to allow escalation to define the future. Kuwait stands firm in its call for peace, stability, and cooperation, believing that only through collective responsibility can lasting security be achieved.

The writer is the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to India; views are personal