**Title: Iran Launches Attacks on US Bases Amid Escalating Tensions**
In a significant escalation of hostilities, the Iranian military has conducted a series of attacks on US military bases across multiple Gulf states. This wave of strikes comes in response to recent US bombings of Iranian cities, including Ahvaz, Khorramabad, and Jask. The Iranian military has issued warnings to local populations to maintain a safe distance from what they term the "US terrorist army forces," indicating a potential for further military action.
On Friday morning, sirens were activated twice in Bahrain as Iranian forces targeted Sheikh Isa Air Base and Naval Support Activity Bahrain, which serves as the headquarters for the US Navy's Fifth Fleet. According to a statement from the Iranian Army, the attacks involved "Arash kamikaze drones" that struck fuel tanks, equipment warehouses, and barracks at the airbase. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also reported damage to an observation tower at the naval support facility.
These bases have experienced multiple Iranian attacks since the onset of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran in February. Social media footage captured smoke rising from the naval base following the second round of sirens, highlighting the intensity of the situation.
In addition to the strikes in Bahrain, the Iranian military confirmed attacks on several other US installations, including Camp Buehring, Camp Doha, and Camp Arifjan in Kuwait. The Iranian forces also targeted aircraft hangars and barracks at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. The IRGC claimed to have inflicted casualties on American personnel during an assault on Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait. Reports have also emerged of Iranian-linked forces attacking a base in Erbil, Iraq, where US personnel are stationed.
The recent attacks mark the continuation of a tit-for-tat exchange of strikes between the US and Iran, which has persisted for 13 consecutive nights since a fragile ceasefire collapsed earlier this month. In the early hours of Friday, US forces conducted bombings at various locations in central and southern Iran, resulting in casualties. Local authorities reported at least four fatalities and five injuries from US missile strikes in Ahvaz.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the bombings targeted command centers, drone sites, telecommunications towers, coastal surveillance sites, and naval assets, aiming to reduce the threat posed by Iran to civilian maritime activities in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement reflecting Iran's stance on the escalating conflict, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any acts of US aggression would be met with a "decisive response." He emphasized Iran's defense doctrine, stating, "eye for an eye," and indicated that any aggression against Iran's infrastructure would provoke a powerful retaliation. He further asserted that those who support such aggression would also be considered legitimate targets.
Iran has consistently argued that the presence of US military forces in the Gulf region jeopardizes the safety of local populations. The IRGC reiterated this position in a statement on Friday, urging civilians in countries hosting American troops to maintain a distance of at least 500 meters from US military installations for their safety.
The situation remains fluid as both nations engage in a dangerous cycle of retaliatory strikes, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region. As tensions continue to mount, the international community watches closely, aware of the implications that a prolonged conflict could have on regional stability and global security.