Iran launched a barrage of drones and missiles targeting a major United States naval installation in Bahrain, along with multiple residential buildings in Manama, following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
Smoke was reported rising from the headquarters of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command in Manama, while explosions were heard across the city, according to Stars and Stripes. A U.S. official confirmed to the outlet that no American casualties have been reported at this time.
However, casualties are believed to have occurred elsewhere in Bahrain. A drone reportedly slammed into the top floors of a residential tower in the Hoora neighborhood, approximately 15 minutes from the U.S. naval installation. The Bahraini government acknowledged that several residential buildings were struck and said firefighting and rescue operations remain ongoing.
Eyewitnesses described thick black smoke and flames at a large building on the naval base as emergency crews responded.
The missile and drone attacks came after President Donald Trump announced that joint American-Israeli strikes had taken place overnight inside Iran. In a national address, Trump said the operations were aimed at eliminating “imminent threats from the Iranian regime” that directly endanger the United States, American troops, overseas bases, and allies throughout the world.
“A short time ago, the United States Military began major combat operations in Iran,” Trump said.
According to the president, the strikes are intended to destroy Iran’s stockpiles of missiles and “obliterate” its missile production industry. He emphasized that a primary objective was preventing Iranian nuclear-tipped long-range missiles from ever threatening the American mainland or U.S. allies in Europe.
Iranian retaliatory strikes have reportedly been launched not only against Bahrain but also against Israel and several Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan.
A statement posted on X from Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior said Civil Defence teams are dealing with damage to three buildings in Manama and Muharraq as a result of drone attacks and falling debris from an intercepted missile. The first building has been evacuated and the fire has been brought under control.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued a statement condemning and denouncing “in strongest terms the blatant Iranian aggression.” The Kingdom called on the international community to condemn the attacks and take firm measures necessary to confront what it described as Iranian violations undermining the security and stability of the region.
