Iran Retaliates with Missile Strikes on US Bases in the Gulf: Regional War Fears Intensify
Date: 28 February 2026 | Updated Report
Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically on Saturday after Iran launched missile and drone strikes on United States military assets across several Gulf Arab states. The retaliation followed a large-scale joint assault on Iranian targets by the US and Israel, marking one of the most dangerous confrontations in the region in recent years.
Explosions were reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, while several countries temporarily closed their airspace as a precaution. Regional leaders have warned that the crisis could spiral into a broader conflict if hostilities continue.
Iran Confirms Military Operation
Iranian state media confirmed that the country’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) carried out coordinated strikes against what it described as “American and Israeli military targets” in the Middle East.
In a statement, the IRGC declared that all US assets in the region were now considered legitimate targets and warned that operations would continue “until the enemy is decisively defeated”. Tehran described the action as self-defence following what it called an unprovoked joint attack by Washington and Tel Aviv.
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Iran Confirms Military Operation |
Bahrain: US Navy Fifth Fleet Headquarters Targeted
Bahrain confirmed that a missile attack was directed at the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, which is based in Manama. The Bahraini government condemned the strike as a “treacherous act” and “a blatant violation of sovereignty”.
Air defence systems reportedly intercepted multiple incoming missiles. Smoke was seen rising over parts of the capital following the blasts.
Casualty Reported in Abu Dhabi
In United Arab Emirates, authorities confirmed that at least one person was killed in Abu Dhabi after debris from intercepted missiles fell in a populated area. Officials stated that most of the projectiles were successfully neutralised before impact.
The UAE government pledged to coordinate closely with international partners to reinforce national security.
Kuwait and Qatar Activate Air Defences
Kuwait reported explosions near facilities associated with US Central Command (CENTCOM). Local officials said defensive systems were activated and that incoming threats were intercepted.
Meanwhile, Qatar announced that its Ministry of Defence had “thwarted” missile attacks before they could enter Qatari airspace. The ministry confirmed that all missiles were intercepted in accordance with pre-approved security protocols.
Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE temporarily closed their airspace amid heightened security concerns.
Drone Attack on Erbil Airport
In northern Iraq, Erbil International Airport — where US forces maintain a presence — was targeted twice. According to regional security sources, a drone was intercepted and destroyed by air defence systems before reaching its intended target.
Oman Not Targeted
The only Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member state not struck so far is Oman. Oman has long served as a diplomatic intermediary between Iran and Western governments.
Just hours before the escalation, Omani officials had expressed optimism over indirect talks between Iran and the United States held in Muscat and Geneva. Those discussions reportedly included assurances from Iran regarding enriched uranium stockpiling. However, following the joint US-Israeli strikes, diplomatic efforts appear to have collapsed.
What Is the GCC?
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), established in 1981, includes:
Bahrain
Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
The bloc was formed to promote economic, political and security cooperation among Gulf states. The current crisis represents one of its most serious collective security challenges.
Background: Joint US-Israeli Strikes on Iran
The confrontation began after the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military installations. US President Donald Trump described the operation as “decisive action” to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear ambitions.
Iran has insisted that its nuclear programme is peaceful and has claimed that the damage from the strikes was limited.
Global Reaction
The United Nations has urged immediate de-escalation. European leaders warned that continued conflict could severely disrupt global energy supplies and destabilise financial markets.
Oil prices surged sharply in early trading amid fears that shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz could be threatened if the crisis deepens.
Impact on India and Global Economy
The escalation holds significant implications for India and other energy-importing nations:
Energy Security – A large proportion of crude oil imports originate from Gulf states.
Diaspora Safety – Millions of expatriate workers reside in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain.
Trade Routes – Any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could affect global shipping and freight costs.
Indian authorities are reportedly monitoring developments closely and assessing contingency plans.
🔴 Latest Update – 28 February 2026 (Late Evening)
The United States Department of Defense confirmed that additional naval and air defence assets are being deployed to the Gulf region.
Saudi Arabia has placed its armed forces on high alert amid fears of spillover strikes.
Iran warned that any further US or Israeli attacks would trigger “wider and more forceful retaliation”.
Israel confirmed that its missile defence systems intercepted several projectiles over northern cities.
Emergency security meetings were held in Washington, Tehran and Tel Aviv.
Diplomatic channels remain open, but analysts warn that the next 24–48 hours will be critical in determining whether the confrontation remains contained or escalates into a prolonged regional conflict.
Conclusion: Middle East at a Crossroads
The events of 28 February 2026 may mark a defining moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics. With missile exchanges, airspace closures and heightened military alerts across the Gulf, the risk of a sustained war has significantly increased.
While Oman’s diplomatic stance offers a glimmer of hope, the immediate future remains uncertain. The international community now faces urgent pressure to prevent further escalation and stabilise a region that plays a central role in global energy and security.
This report reflects the latest available information as of 28 February 2026. Developments are ongoing.
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