Kuwait arrests 4 IRGC-linked infiltrators targeting Bubiyan Island
Synopsis
Four IRGC-affiliated operatives were arrested attempting to infiltrate Kuwait's Bubiyan Island by sea, with one Kuwaiti soldier injured and two suspects still at large. Kuwait has invoked Article 51 of the UN Charter and cited a breach of Security Council Resolution 2817 of 2026 — signalling it reserves the right to self-defence.
Key Takeaways
Four IRGC-affiliated infiltrators were arrested by Kuwaiti Armed Forces on 12 May 2025 after attempting to enter Bubiyan Island by sea.
The infiltrators confessed to being tasked with carrying out hostile acts against Kuwait , using a rented fishing boat.
One Kuwaiti Armed Forces member was injured during the confrontation; two infiltrators escaped.
Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the acts a "flagrant violation" of sovereignty and a breach of international law and the UN Charter .
Kuwait invoked Article 51 of the UN Charter , reserving its right to self-defence , and cited a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2817 of 2026 .
Kuwait demanded Iran immediately and unconditionally cease all unlawful hostile acts threatening regional security.
Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, 12 May confirmed that Kuwaiti Armed Forces personnel have arrested members of an armed group affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), who were attempting to infiltrate Bubiyan Island with the aim of carrying out hostile acts against Kuwait. Four infiltrators were detained after attempting to enter the country by sea.
How the Infiltration Was Foiled
According to Kuwait's Ministry of Interior (MoI), the four individuals attempted to enter Kuwaiti territory aboard a fishing boat rented specifically for the mission. The MoI stated that during interrogation, the infiltrators confessed to being tasked by Iran's Revolutionary Guards with infiltrating Bubiyan Island to carry out hostile operations.
The confrontation between the infiltrators and Kuwaiti Armed Forces resulted in the injury of one Kuwaiti Armed Forces member and the escape of two of the infiltrators. The remaining four were taken into custody.
Kuwait's Strong Condemnation
Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a sharp condemnation of the operation, describing the armed group's actions as a
Point of View
Not just registering protest. The escape of two operatives raises questions about the operational intelligence that preceded the interception. If Iran's posture in the Gulf hardens, Kuwait — historically a cautious mediator — may be forced to abandon its balancing act between Riyadh and Tehran.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Bubiyan Island in Kuwait?
Kuwaiti Armed Forces arrested four members of an IRGC-affiliated armed group on 12 May 2025 who were attempting to infiltrate Bubiyan Island by sea aboard a rented fishing boat. The infiltrators confessed to being tasked with carrying out hostile acts against Kuwait.
Who are the IRGC and why does their involvement matter?
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a branch of Iran's military with a mandate to protect the Islamic Republic's political system. Their alleged involvement in a covert infiltration of Kuwaiti territory marks a serious escalation, directly implicating the Iranian state in hostile activity against a neighbouring Gulf nation.
What was the outcome of the confrontation?
Four infiltrators were arrested, one Kuwaiti Armed Forces member was injured, and two other infiltrators managed to escape. The arrested individuals confessed during interrogation to their affiliation with Iran's Revolutionary Guards.
How has Kuwait responded diplomatically?
Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong condemnation, demanded Iran immediately cease all hostile acts, and invoked Article 51 of the UN Charter — reserving its right to self-defence. It also cited a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2817 of 2026.
What is the significance of Bubiyan Island?
Bubiyan Island is Kuwait's largest island, strategically located at the northern end of the Arabian Gulf near the Iraqi and Iranian maritime borders. Its proximity to key shipping lanes and regional chokepoints makes it a sensitive security zone.
