Iran launched a wave of missile and drone attacks against American military facilities across the Middle East on Wednesday, targeting bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan in retaliation for recent US military strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation marks one of the most serious direct confrontations between the two countries in recent years.
According to reports, the attacks were carried out by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which said the operation was a response to American airstrikes on Iranian military positions in southern Iran. The US strikes reportedly targeted air defence and radar installations near the strategic Strait of Hormuz after Washington accused Tehran of being responsible for the downing of a US military helicopter earlier this week.
Iran claimed that the operation struck several US military sites, including facilities linked to the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain and other installations used by American forces in Kuwait and Jordan. Iranian officials described the attacks as an act of “self defence” and warned that any further US military action would receive a stronger response.
However, authorities in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan said that their air defence systems had intercepted many of the incoming missiles and drones. Initial reports indicated that there were no immediate casualties among US personnel, although damage assessments were still underway. The US military has not confirmed the full extent of any impact on its facilities.
US President Donald Trump condemned the attacks and vowed to protect American forces and interests in the region. The White House said it was closely monitoring developments and consulting with regional allies.
The latest exchange of strikes has heightened fears of a broader conflict across the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, remains a focal point of concern, with energy markets reacting nervously to the possibility of further disruptions.
Regional governments have called for restraint, warning that continued military escalation could threaten stability throughout the Gulf and beyond.
