Threat follows reported airstrike on Tehran bank as Gulf tensions escalate
March 11, 2026: Iran has warned it could target “economic and banking centres” linked to the United States and Israel across West Asia after what it described as an attack on an Iranian bank. The warning was issued by the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, Iran’s central military operational command, following reports carried by state media that a bank in Tehran was struck in overnight airstrikes. According to Iranian reports, several bank employees were killed, prompting the military command to threaten retaliation against financial and economic institutions connected to the US and Israel.
Iranian officials also warned residents to stay at least 1,000 metres away from banks, raising concerns about the safety of financial centres across the Gulf region. Major hubs such as Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, along with key banking centres in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, are being closely watched amid the escalating conflict. Analysts say any targeting of financial infrastructure could significantly disrupt regional economies and global markets.
The warning comes as military activity spreads across the Persian Gulf. Iranian drones reportedly struck near Dubai International Airport, injuring four people, while a projectile hit a cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz near Oman, setting it on fire and forcing crew members to abandon ship. Gulf nations including Kuwait and Saudi Arabia activated air defence systems, intercepting several drones and missiles as tensions continue to rise across the region.