Iranian Revolutionary Guards Strike US Bases in Kuwait and Bahrain
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced on Sunday that they carried out drone and missile strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain, destroying eight important US military facilities. The attacks targeted the Ali Al-Salem base in Kuwait and the Fifth Fleet naval base in Port Salman in Bahrain, according to a Guards statement.
The strikes were in retaliation for US attacks on Iranian territory, which the Guards said violated a fragile ceasefire mediated by Pakistan. The memorandum of understanding, signed in mid-June, required both sides to refrain from initiating war or military operations against each other.
Context of the Conflict
Iran and the United States have accused each other of violating the ceasefire, straining negotiations aimed at ending the Middle East war. The US military bombed Iran for a second consecutive day on Saturday, claiming it was retaliation for an Iranian attack on a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Guards warned that any further enemy aggression, even against insignificant targets, would be met with a crushing response. They also stated that measures had been taken to control traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and that violating ships would be dealt with more firmly than before.
Impact on Shipping and Regional Stability
Under the memorandum, Iran agreed to ensure safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days, from the Arabian Gulf to the Sea of Oman and vice versa. However, the Guards warned on Thursday against any passage without their permission. Oman has flagged an alternative route, but the only passage authorized by Iran is a corridor along its coast.
The strikes have heightened tensions in the region, with Kuwait and Bahrain reporting damage from intercepted drones and missile debris. The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to trade accusations and threats.
