Multiple Gulf Arab states that host US assets targeted in Iran retaliation

On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched a series of air strikes against Iran, marking the beginning of what U.S. President Donald Trump described as "major combat operations." The operation, referred to as Operation Epic Fury/Roaring Lion, targeted numerous military sites, including nuclear facilities, missile installations, and the compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, whose location was reported as unknown. The Israeli military stated that the strikes had been in preparation for several months (France24; The Hindu). In response to the U.S.-Israeli attacks, Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed that they had initiated retaliatory missile and drone strikes aimed at Israel and various U.S. military bases in the region. Notably, these bases included locations in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, which are known to host U.S. assets. Reports indicated that explosions were heard in Tehran, causing panic among the civilian population (Deadline; France24). President Trump emphasized the objective of the operation, stating intentions to "destroy their missiles" and "obliterate" Iran's naval capabilities. The U.S. and Israel's coordinated military actions have escalated tensions in the Middle East, with significant implications for regional security and international relations (Breaking Defense).