Iranian Kamikaze Drones Strike US Reconnaissance Aircraft Base in Bahrain

Iran’s military launched a drone attack targeting a United States military base in Bahrain during the 11th phase of the ‘Saegheh’ operation. The retaliatory strike comes amid continuing escalation of hostilities between Tehran and Washington.

According to Anadolu Agency on Friday (17/7/2026), in a statement the Iranian military said it targeted Al-Sakhir Air Base, where US military helicopters and P-8 reconnaissance aircraft are stationed, using Arash kamikaze drones.

The attack was described as a response to US strikes targeting civilian infrastructure and innocent people in Iran.

The Iranian military pledged a ‘swift and decisive’ response to any further acts of hostility. It warned that any miscalculation of Iran’s resolve or the military capabilities of its armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) would carry a ‘heavy cost’.

Meanwhile, air raid sirens sounded across Bahrain. Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior urged citizens and residents to remain calm and head to the nearest safe shelter.

Regional tensions have risen since February, when the US and Israel launched joint attacks against Iran. Tehran responded with missile and drone strikes targeting Gulf states hosting US military assets.

Iran and the US signed a Pakistan-mediated memorandum of understanding last month aimed at ending their conflict and reaching a lasting peace agreement.

However, tensions have increased in the Strait of Hormuz in recent days, with both sides launching attacks against one another.