Gulf states hosting US bases face escalating missile threats, raising major regional security concerns.
U. S. forces maintain a significant presence in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, making those countries potential targets during periods of escalation.
In the United Arab Emirates, loud explosions were reported in and around Abu Dhabi as air defenses responded to incoming threats. Reuters correspondents and witnesses previously reported hearing multiple powerful booms across the capital, including in areas near Al Dhafra and Bateen. Al Dhafra Air Base, located near Abu Dhabi, hosts U. S.
military operations and has been targeted during the conflict. However, individual reports about specific missiles striking the installation should be distinguished from confirmed damage assessments, which can take time to establish during an active attack.