Several Gulf Arab countries that host military assets of the United States have reportedly been targeted in retaliatory strikes launched by Iran, escalating tensions across the region.
Among the countries affected is Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters. Qatar was also named, as it hosts Al Udeid Air Base, one of the largest US military installations in the Middle East.
Other Gulf states reportedly impacted include Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, both of which host key US air bases and military facilities.
The reported strikes were described as retaliation for actions Iran attributes to the United States and its regional ally Israel. Analysts warn that the tit-for-tat escalation could further destabilise the Gulf region unless diplomatic efforts are revived