A Swiss traveler has shared her harrowing experience after being stranded at Doha Airport, describing the fear and uncertainty as missile attacks escalated across the Gulf region.

Following retaliatory strikes by Iran on several Arab oil-rich states, including Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, air traffic was suspended at major airports across the region, including Dubai. Over 1,000 Swiss nationals are currently stranded in 15 countries due to the sudden disruption.

Panic at Doha Airport

The tense scene unfolded on the airport tarmac, with explosions and intercepted missiles lighting up the sky. A Swiss traveler recounted, “I saw missiles coming in our direction,” reflecting the palpable fear among passengers as flights were delayed or canceled. The moment was captured by photographer and photojournalist Boris Allin on Instagram, illustrating the extraordinary uncertainty in the region.

Escalation Across the Gulf

The missile strikes came in response to U.S. and Israeli attacks on Tehran earlier that morning. Iran quickly retaliated with missile barrages targeting multiple Gulf monarchies, heightening tensions and raising concerns over civilian safety and regional stability.

The Sultanate of Oman was also affected on Sunday morning, according to the Omani news agency, with drone attacks on the port of Duqm causing one injury and minor damage.

This series of attacks has not only disrupted air travel but also left international travelers, including Swiss nationals, in a state of anxiety and uncertainty, as governments coordinate evacuations and safety measures amid a rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Middle East.