Missile Strikes Hit US Naval Sites in Bahrain Amid Escalating US-Israel-Iran Conflict

Missiles reportedly struck sites in Bahrain, home to the United States Navy Fifth Fleet, in a dramatic escalation following joint US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran. The latest attacks have intensified fears that the confrontation could spiral into a broader regional war.

Authorities in Bahrain reported that the missile attack targeted the Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama, though the full extent of the damage has not been independently verified. A large column of smoke was seen rising above the city as explosions echoed across the capital. The Fifth Fleet, based at Mina Salman, oversees US naval operations throughout the Middle East and Gulf region. US officials stated that infrastructure in Bahrain was damaged, but it remains unclear whether the base itself was directly hit. No American casualties have been reported so far.

Amid the escalating crisis, the UK Foreign Office issued an urgent advisory to British nationals in the Gulf, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, urging them to shelter in place, remain indoors, avoid travel, and follow local authorities’ instructions.

Airspace closures have been implemented across several Gulf states and Iraq. In the UAE, including Dubai, flights have been suspended as authorities secure the skies amid ongoing missile activity. Iran is reported to have targeted multiple US military sites in the region.

In Abu Dhabi, one person, identified as a Pakistani national, was reportedly killed after debris from a missile strike fell onto a residential area. Explosions were also heard near Abu Dhabi’s main airport.

Israel has placed the country on high alert, activating warning sirens and instructing residents to seek shelter. Embassies have advised nationals to remain indoors and follow official guidance. Jordan’s military said it intercepted two ballistic missiles launched toward its territory.

In Iraq, airstrikes reportedly killed two people in Jurf al-Sakhar and wounded others. A missile is believed to have targeted the US Consulate in Erbil. Explosions were also reported across Tehran and other parts of Iran, with hospitals on standby amid a near-total internet blackout.

The UK government has confirmed it did not participate in the US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to chair an emergency Cobra meeting to address the situation.

A UK government spokesperson said: “Iran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and that is why we have continually supported efforts to reach a negotiated solution. Our immediate priority is the safety of UK nationals in the region and we will provide them with consular assistance, available 24/7.

“As part of our longstanding commitments to the security of our allies in the Middle East, we have a range of defensive capabilities in the region, which we have recently bolstered. We stand ready to protect our interests. We do not want to see further escalation into a wider regional conflict.”