TEHRAN – Iran has confirmed missile attacks on key US military bases in the Gulf region, including the Al Udeid airbase in Qatar, the Al Salim airbase in Kuwait, and multiple targets in the UAE and Bahrain.
According to Arab media reports, Iran also targeted the UAE’s Al Dhafra airbase and Bahrain’s naval base.
The UAE’s official news agency reported that one person was killed in the missile attack, though authorities successfully intercepted several Iranian missiles.
The UAE has condemned the attack as a violation of its sovereignty and international law, emphasizing its right to respond to the aggression.
In response to the escalating security situation, the UAE partially closed its airspace temporarily to ensure the safety of flights and personnel. Authorities have assured passengers that airlines will provide accommodation and support for affected travelers, and they urged the public to rely on official sources for updates.
The attacks are part of Iran’s ongoing retaliatory measures against US and Israeli military operations. Iran has targeted American installations across several Gulf nations, including the US bases in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE. Explosions were also reported in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Dubai’s Marina area.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that the country would continue its defense efforts and target all US military bases in the region. In a separate development, the head of Iran’s National Security Commission issued a stern warning to Israel, asserting that Iran had already delivered a warning, and the consequences of further actions would be out of Israel’s control.
Iran Hits These Targets
The US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, headquartered in Bahrain, oversees military operations throughout the Gulf and surrounding waters.
In Qatar, the Al Udeid Air Base serves as the largest U.S. military facility in the Middle East, housing around 10,000 personnel and acting as the forward base for U.S. Central Command.
Kuwait is home to several critical US military installations, such as Camp Arifjan, which serves as the headquarters for US Army Central, and Ali Al Salem Air Base, situated near the Iraqi border. Another key site, Camp Buehring, supports U.S. Army operations en route to Iraq and Syria.
In the United Arab Emirates, Al Dhafra Air Base plays a vital role in supporting U.S. Air Force missions, particularly those targeting the Islamic State, as well as conducting intelligence and surveillance operations. While not officially classified as a military base, Jebel Ali Port in Dubai is the primary logistical hub for the U.S. Navy in the region.
Iraq hosts US forces at Ain Al Asad Air Base, providing support to local forces and contributing to NATO missions. Erbil Air Base, located in northern Iraq, is also a center for U.S. training and coordination efforts in the region.
Saudi Arabia hosts over 2,300 US military personnel working in partnership with the Saudi government to enhance air and missile defense capabilities. Prince Sultan Air Base is a central location for U.S. Army operations in the country.
In Jordan, the Muwaffaq al Salti Air Base supports the U.S. Air Force’s 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, conducting operations throughout the Levant.
