Iran Strikes US Bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan as Conflict Escalates

Iran announced early Thursday that its military carried out drone strikes targeting US military bases and facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing confrontation between Tehran and Washington.

The Iranian military said the attacks struck radar systems, Patriot air defense batteries, and fuel storage facilities at Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, as well as installations at Shaikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain and communications systems and fuel depots used by US forces in Jordan.

In response, Jordan’s army stated it intercepted eight Iranian missiles heading toward the kingdom, confirming no casualties or material damage. Meanwhile, the US military launched a new wave of strikes early Thursday against targets inside Iran, including sites in Tehran, Ahvaz, Bandar Abbas, and Konarak. Reports also indicated explosions in Lorestan and Semnan provinces.

A children’s cancer hospital in Ahvaz was evacuated after rockets landed nearby. Iran activated air defense systems over Tehran but has not yet released an official casualty count.

US Central Command said Wednesday it had begun a fresh round of strikes aimed at weakening Iranian military capabilities used to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The US also reported that a US aircraft disabled an empty oil tanker attempting to breach the naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Iran has threatened to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed until US attacks stop and warned of further steps affecting oil and gas exports. Politically, President Donald Trump signaled potential expansion of strikes to vital infrastructure like bridges and power plants, while keeping the door open for negotiations. Iran’s foreign ministry said defense and retaliation are the current priority, with no talks on the table.

Article and image source: pnn.ps