Bahrain, Kuwait launch secret airstrikes on Iran in first direct retaliation

Bahrain and Kuwait have launched secret airstrikes targeting Iranian military facilities, marking a significant escalation and the first direct retaliation by Gulf Arab states since the current US-Iran conflict erupted. The operation, which reportedly hit drone and missile storage sites, also involved the United Arab Emirates providing crucial intelligence and defensive air cover.

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Bahrain and Kuwait have recently and secretly dispatched fighter jets into Iranian territory to carry out airstrikes on drone and missile storage facilities.

Sources familiar with the matter told The Wall Street Journal that the cross-border military action was a response to recent Iranian drone and missile attacks. Both Bahrain and Kuwait have become primary targets due to the presence of significant US military bases within their territories. Bahrain hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet command, while thousands of US troops are stationed in Kuwait.

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The United Arab Emirates also provided target intelligence and defensive air cover, assisting in the completion of this cross-border military operation.

Kuwait's Foreign Ministry recently accused Iran of attacking vital civilian infrastructure, including power plants and desalination facilities, which it deemed a severe violation of international law. Despite having relatively small air forces equipped with US and European aircraft, Bahrain and Kuwait reportedly concluded that relying solely on air defense systems to intercept Iranian attacks was insufficient to de-escalate the situation. This led them to take the unprecedented step of direct military counteraction.

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Kuwait's Foreign Ministry recently accused Iran of attacking power plants and desalination plants, among other vital civilian facilities, which it said was a serious violation of international law.

Middle East analysts suggest that this move signifies a strategic shift among Gulf Arab nations. Historically, these countries have sought to avoid direct military confrontation with Iran to maintain regional stability and economic interests. However, the ongoing conflict and repeated attacks on military bases and civilian infrastructure have prompted a reassessment of their security strategies. The joint operation indicates a move beyond the US-Iran confrontation, drawing more regional states into direct participation.

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Gulf Arab countries are gradually changing their previously restrained policies, reflecting that this conflict has expanded from a US-Iran confrontation to direct participation by more regional countries.