After the United States launched strikes on Iran’s key nuclear sites, Tehran issued a strong warning, threatening retaliation. With tensions escalating, US military bases across the Middle East are under renewed scrutiny as potential targets.
Here’s a closer look at the main US military installations in the region:
BAHRAIN
- Headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet
- Oversees operations across the Gulf, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.
- Crucial for maritime security and naval operations in the region.
QATAR
- Al Udeid Air Base (24-hectare base outside Doha)
- Serves as the forward headquarters of US Central Command (CENTCOM).
- Largest US base in the Middle East, housing around 10,000 troops.
- Key hub for air operations and logistics from Egypt to Kazakhstan.
KUWAIT
- Camp Arifjan: Forward headquarters of US Army Central.
- Ali Al Salem Air Base: Located 40 km from the Iraqi border, known as “The Rock”.
- Camp Buehring: Used as a staging post for troops entering Iraq and Syria.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
- Al Dhafra Air Base (south of Abu Dhabi): Jointly used with UAE Air Force.
- Key for missions against ISIS and intelligence gathering.
- Jebel Ali Port (Dubai):
- Not a military base, but largest port of call for the US Navy in the region.
- Frequently hosts aircraft carriers and naval vessels.
IRAQ
- Ain Al Asad Air Base (Anbar province):
- Targeted by Iranian missile strikes in 2020 after Soleimani’s death.
- Supports Iraqi security forces and NATO missions.
- Erbil Air Base (Kurdistan Region):
- A vital hub for coalition training, logistics, and intelligence coordination.
SAUDI ARABIA
- As of 2024, 2,321 US troops are stationed in the Kingdom.
- Prince Sultan Air Base (60 km south of Riyadh):
- Supports Patriot missile batteries and THAAD systems.
- Provides air and missile defense operations in coordination with Saudi forces.
JORDAN
- Muwaffaq al Salti Air Base (Azraq):
- Home to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing of US Air Forces Central.
- Engaged in regional missions across the Levant.
Conclusion:
As tensions flare in the wake of US airstrikes, Iran has signaled that American bases across the Middle East could be targeted. These installations represent not only US military strength but also strategic influence in one of the world’s most volatile regions.