Iran Launches Retaliatory Strikes Across the Middle East Following US-Israel Attack

In a significant escalation of tensions, Iran has launched a series of missile and drone strikes targeting U.S. Military bases across West Asia. These retaliatory strikes followed a joint military attack by the U.S. And Israel earlier in the day, prompting widespread concern and prompting regional advisories for citizens, and travelers.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the objective of the initial U.S.-Israel attack was “to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.” Trump also claimed that Iran has continued to develop its nuclear program and plans to develop missiles capable of reaching the U.S.

Impacted U.S. Military Bases

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) initiated “Operation Truthful Promise 4,” targeting key U.S. Military installations across the Middle East. The attacks impacted seven U.S. Military bases in six countries:

• Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar: The largest U.S. Military base in the region, serving as a crucial headquarters for U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). Qatari authorities reported intercepting incoming missiles using anti-missile systems.
• Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates: This U.S. Air base in Abu Dhabi hosts approximately 5,000 U.S. Personnel and advanced military equipment. Local sources reported hearing loud booms and seeing smoke emanating from the base area. Shrapnel from an Iranian missile attack on Abu Dhabi killed one person, marking the first known fatality in Iran’s counterattack.
• Ali Al-Salem Air Base, Kuwait: Also known as “The Rock,” this base consolidates U.S. Air Force operations and is near the Iraqi border. Witnesses reported explosions and air-raid sirens in the vicinity.
• NSA Bahrain: A critical naval facility for regional operations. Videos circulated online showing smoke rising from the base in Manama after a missile strike.
• Muwaffaq Al-Salti Air Base, Jordan: Several Iranian missiles struck this military base, with Jordan’s air defenses reportedly downing two missiles.
• Ain Al-Asad Air Base, Iraq: Local reports indicated smoke and explosions near this base in western Iraq.
• Erbil Air Base, Iraq: This base was reportedly on high alert and received several missile strikes from the Iranian army.

Indian Embassy Advisories

The Indian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) urged all Indian nationals in the country to avoid unnecessary travel, remain vigilant, and follow safety guidelines issued by UAE authorities. The Embassy provided contact information, including a toll-free number (800-46342), a WhatsApp number (+971543090571), and email addresses (pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in and ca.abudhabi@mea.gov.in) for emergencies.

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh advised Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia to remain vigilant and adhere to local safety guidelines. The Indian Embassy in Jordan issued an advisory urging all Indian nationals and tourists to exercise caution and consider leaving the country immediately to avoid potential disruptions to commercial flights. A contact number (00962-770 422 276) was provided for emergencies.

U.S. Military Presence in Southeast Asia

According to recent developments, the U.S. Army does not maintain permanent military bases in Southeast Asia. Though, the U.S. Continues military missions through agreements with various nations, maintaining 14 temporary facilities for logistical purposes in the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and the British Indian Ocean Territory.