Iran Attacks US Military Bases; UN Warns of Broader Conflict Risk
Iran launched ballistic missile attacks against several Middle Eastern nations hosting American military bases in response to waves of strikes from Washington. The attacks targeted regions containing tens of thousands of US military personnel operating under US Central Command (CENTCOM).
Several countries hosting US troop concentrations reported attacks or interception attempts of Iranian missiles and drones, including Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates.
In Bahrain, the small Gulf kingdom hosts Naval Support Activity Bahrain, the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet and Naval Forces Central Command for the region. Bahrain’s deep-water port can accommodate the largest US military vessels, including aircraft carriers, and has been in use since 1948. The Bahraini government stated that the Fifth Fleet support facility came under attack from Iranian missiles on Saturday.
In Iraq, US forces remain deployed in the autonomous Kurdistan region as part of an international coalition against ISIS. However, this mission is scheduled to conclude in September under a Washington-Baghdad agreement. According to AFP, explosions were reported near the US consulate in Arbil, capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, whilst the pro-Iran Kataeb Hezbollah group threatened to attack US bases. Kurdish security forces stated that the US-led coalition successfully intercepted several drones and missiles over Arbil.
Kuwait also hosts several US military bases, including Camp Arifjan, which serves as the forward headquarters for the US Army component of CENTCOM. Ali al Salem Air Base houses the 386th Expeditionary Air Wing, described by the military as the main hub for airlift operations and the gateway for deploying combat power to joint and coalition forces in the region. Kuwait stated that its air defence systems successfully countered incoming missiles. Italy’s Foreign Minister said the Iranian attacks caused significant damage to the runway at Kuwait’s air base hosting Italian Air Force personnel.
In Qatar, Al Udeid Air Base serves as the forward operating centre for CENTCOM’s air component and special operations. The base also houses the 379th Expeditionary Air Wing, which provides airlift, aerial refuelling, intelligence, surveillance, and medical evacuation capabilities. Qatar reported that its territory came under attack from Iranian missiles on Saturday, following a previous attack on the same base in June.
In Syria, US forces have long been stationed as part of operations against ISIS. However, the withdrawal of US troops is currently underway and expected to be completed within one month. Syrian government media reported that four people were killed in Iranian missile strikes that hit the country’s southern region.
The United Arab Emirates also reported intercepting two waves of Iranian missile attacks targeting its territory. Al Dhafra Air Base in the country hosts the US 380th Expeditionary Air Wing, which comprises several fighter aircraft squadrons and MQ-9 Reaper drones. Debris from the first wave of attacks reportedly killed a civilian in Abu Dhabi.
The United Nations expressed deep concern over the conflict escalation and warned of its impact on civilians. “I condemn the military attacks across Iran this morning by Israel and the United States, and the subsequent retaliatory attacks by Iran,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, according to AFP. “As always in any armed conflict, it is civilians who ultimately pay the highest price.”
Turk also emphasised that military violence is not a solution. “Bombs and missiles are not the way to settle differences, but only result in death, destruction, and human suffering.” He urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation.
“Calling for restraint and urging all parties to think clearly, ease tensions, and return to the negotiating table, where they were actively seeking solutions just hours earlier,” he said.
Previously, US and Iranian negotiators had held indirect talks in Geneva through Omani mediation regarding Tehran’s nuclear programme.
The World Health Organisation also expressed concern over the situation. “We urge leaders to choose the challenging path of dialogue rather than the senseless path of destruction,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “The world is watching and hoping that wisdom can overcome weapons. Peace is the best medicine.”
The UN emphasised that protection of civilians must be the primary priority in armed conflict, and those who violate the laws of war must be held accountable. Meanwhile, President Prabowo Subianto offered to mediate between the US and Iran. In another development, an Israeli strike on a school in Iran killed 24 students, and Russia urged citizens to leave Israel.
The Indonesian Embassy in Tehran continues to monitor the security situation following the attacks on Iran and is ensuring that hundreds of Indonesian nationals remain monitored and safe.