The United States has launched a large-scale military operation against Iran, with what The Wall Street Journal describes as “intense attacks” expected to continue for several days. The escalation is rapidly spreading beyond Iran’s borders, with explosions and emergency measures reported across multiple Middle Eastern countries.
According to regional media, air raid sirens were activated in Bahrain, while Qatar and the United Arab Emirates closed their airspace. Kuwait also announced the suspension of civilian flights. Reports indicate that air defense systems have been activated in several Gulf states amid fears of further missile and drone activity.
Videos circulating on social media show the reported flight of around 20 U.S. and Israeli aircraft believed to be heading toward Iranian targets. Additional reports mention the launch or transit of Tomahawk cruise missiles as part of the operation.
Explosions have been reported in Abu Dhabi, where preliminary information suggests that air defense systems are engaging incoming threats. In Bahrain, authorities confirmed a missile strike on a service facility associated with the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet. Footage appearing to show the impact near the base has been widely shared online.
In Dubai, media outlets report explosions in the Dubai Marina district, one of the city’s most prominent waterfront areas. There are also reports of evacuations from the Burj Khalifa, although official confirmation remains limited.
Regional media claim that Iranian ballistic missiles struck Al-Dhafra Air Base in the UAE and Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait. Additional unconfirmed reports point to attacks on U.S. military-linked facilities in Jordan and Saudi Arabia.
Israel’s Channel 9 has also reported an alleged attack on the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea. There has been no official confirmation from U.S. authorities regarding this claim.
Officials in several countries have yet to provide comprehensive statements on the scope of the attacks and damage assessments. As the situation continues to develop, governments across the region are on high alert, and further military activity in the coming days appears likely.
This is a developing story.
