Explosions were heard in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha and Riyadh hours after US and Israeli strikes on Iran. The blasts raised fears of a wider Middle East conflict. All four cities host American military personnel and key bases.
In Abu Dhabi, US forces operate from Al Dhafra Air Base. Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port serves as a major US Navy hub. Doha houses Al Udeid Air Base, the forward headquarters of US Central Command. In Saudi Arabia, US troops are stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base near Riyadh.
Bahrain reported a missile strike targeting the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama. Kuwait said its air defences engaged incoming missiles, while Qatar reported successful interceptions. Saudi Arabia condemned what it called Iranian aggression.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump confirmed major combat operations in Iran, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the strikes as a joint effort. Iran also fired missiles toward Israel.
Several countries closed their airspace. Airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, diverted flights as regional tensions surged.
