Iran Launches Major Retaliatory Strike Against US-Israeli Targets, Explosions Reported Across Gulf States
Iran launched a large-scale missile attack targeting several US military bases throughout the Persian Gulf region on Saturday, 28 February 2026. This retaliatory strike followed a combined military operation launched by the United States and Israel against targets within Iranian territory on the same day.
Iran’s news agency, Fars, reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) had targeted strategic locations serving as US military headquarters in the Gulf region.
Primary targets included Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which is the largest US military base in the Middle East, Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, and Al-Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain was reported to have been directly targeted.
Reports from the UAE’s state news agency confirmed that at least one person was killed in Abu Dhabi after local security authorities intercepted several missiles launched from Iran.
“The UAE government strongly condemns the attack and calls it a clear violation of national sovereignty and international law. The UAE affirms its full right to respond to the escalation that endangers civilians,” the UAE Government stated, according to Al Jazeera.
In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s two major cities, a series of explosions was heard amidst smoke plumes rising into the sky. Due to the deteriorating security situation, UAE aviation authorities closed their airspace to civilian flights as a precautionary measure.
In Bahrain, the Ministry of Interior issued an emergency alert via text message to residents. The government urged all citizens to cease activities immediately and proceed to safe locations or the nearest shelter.
“Sirens are sounding due to danger. Citizens are expected to remain calm and follow official safety instructions,” the ministry stated, as reported by AFP.
Similar steps were taken by neighbouring countries including Qatar and Kuwait to avoid potential further risks on commercial flight routes.
Reports from the field indicated that the escalation rapidly spread to other areas of the Arabian Peninsula. AFP reported hearing loud explosions that reached Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh.
The situation intensified after the US formally announced strikes on Iran. US long-range fighter jets and precision missiles were reported to have targeted several military facilities and strategic infrastructure belonging to the IRGC on Iranian territory. Multiple large explosions were reported heard in several major Iranian cities, including areas surrounding Tehran.
US President Donald Trump specifically issued a warning to the IRGC, the elite force under the direct command of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as well as Iran’s entire armed forces and police.
“Lay down your weapons and receive full immunity, or else face certain death,” Trump stated in his address.
In addition to threats against the military, Trump conveyed a direct message to Iranian civilians. He urged people to seek protection following warnings of intensive bombing campaigns across strategic areas. However, at the same time, he called on the Iranian people to overthrow the Islamic Republic regime, which has been in power since the 1979 revolution.
“Your time of freedom is near,” Trump said. “When our operation is complete, take control of your government. It will be yours. This may be your only opportunity in several generations to come.”