Bahrain and Kuwait Secretly Strike Iranian Military Depots

The strikes highlight the increasingly complex position of Arab states as regional hostilities continue to escalate. The United Arab Emirates, which has engaged in its own series of strikes against Iran throughout the war, provided intelligence on the selected targets and offered defensive air cover for the Bahraini and Kuwaiti jets.

Regional Escalation and Defensive Shifts

The coordinated operation comes amid a period of heightened military activity across the Gulf. Following a series of strikes by the United States and Israel, Iran has launched retaliatory attacks against several countries hosting U.S. military assets, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

In Kuwait, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the Ali Al-Salem Air Base was targeted by ballistic missiles, though officials stated that defensive systems intercepted the incoming fire, preventing major damage or casualties. The country also faced a drone strike at Kuwait International Airport, which caused material damage to a passenger building and resulted in minor injuries to staff, according to the General Authority of Civil Aviation.

These attacks have forced significant disruptions to civilian infrastructure. Kuwaiti authorities were compelled to close the nation’s airspace, with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation citing sinful Iranian aggressions and the associated risks to civil aviation traffic. The security climate has also led to widespread flight cancellations by regional and international carriers, including Saudia, Oman Air, and Turkish Airlines, impacting travel to and from multiple Gulf hubs.

Friendly Fire Incident

The intensity of the air combat environment has led to operational complications between allies. In a recent development, the United States Central Command confirmed that three U.S. Air Force F-15E fighter jets were shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during active combat operations.

The incident occurred while the American aircraft were supporting missions over Iran amidst heavy regional missile and drone activity. According to Indianexpress, all six aircrew members successfully ejected and were recovered in stable condition. Kuwaiti officials acknowledged the event, and both nations have emphasized continued cooperation in their defensive efforts.

Economic and Strategic Stakes

The ongoing conflict, which intensified following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes that began on Feb. 28, continues to exert pressure on the global economy. The disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has caused energy prices to surge, with the international benchmark for crude oil trading above $93 per barrel at points during the hostilities.

While the Trump administration has maintained that the Strait remains open under U.S. military protection, market analysts warn that further disruptions could force Gulf production lower. The U.S. military has stated that its own campaign of strikes is intended to degrade Iranian capabilities used to attack commercial shipping.