PERSIAN GULF — Tensions across the Middle East have continued to intensify as the conflict involving Iran, the United States and regional actors increasingly affects military installations, commercial shipping and critical energy infrastructure across the Persian Gulf.

Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates remain particularly exposed because of their strategic locations and their hosting of major U.S. military facilities. The continuing confrontation has placed governments across the Gulf on heightened alert while raising concerns about the potential for further attacks and disruptions to one of the world’s most important energy corridors.

The escalation is no longer limited to missile and drone threats. Maritime attacks around the Strait of Hormuz have become a growing concern, with Reuters reporting that the week ending October 5 recorded the highest number of tanker-related incidents since the war began in February. At least 12 attacks, attempted attacks or other hostile incidents were recorded between September 28 and October 5.