TEHRAN (Dunya News) - Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday accused Kuwait of “unlawfully” attacking an Iranian vessel in the Persian Gulf and detaining four Iranian citizens, demanding their immediate release and warning that Tehran reserves the right to respond.
In a statement shared on social media, Abbas Araghchi said the incident occurred near an island allegedly used by the United States for operations against Iran.
He described Kuwait’s actions as illegal and said Iran would take all necessary measures to protect its citizens.
In clear attempt to sow discord, Kuwait has unlawfully attacked an Iranian boat and detained 4 of our citizens in the Persian Gulf. This illegal act took place near island used by the U.S. to attack Iran. We demand immediate release of our nationals and reserve right to respond.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) May 13, 2026The Iranian foreign minister added that Tehran seeks to avoid further escalation in the region but would not remain silent over any action targeting Iranian nationals.
The statement came a day after Kuwait announced the arrest of four individuals allegedly affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, claiming they had attempted to infiltrate the Gulf state by sea.
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The incident has further heightened tensions in the Gulf region amid ongoing security concerns and strained relations between Iran and several neighboring states.