US considers moving Middle East bases to Israel's Negev after Iran strikes

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) is weighing a significant strategic shift, considering the relocation of its military bases from Gulf states like Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia to Israel's Negev desert. This potential move stems from the extensive damage inflicted by Iranian missile and drone attacks, which have rendered existing bases increasingly vulnerable.

The U.S. Navy's base in Bahrain, a key hub for over 50 years, has sustained severe damage since February. Rebuilding efforts, including restoring communication terminals and facilities, are estimated to cost around $400 million, excluding debris removal. Some structures may not be rebuilt, with command and control nodes potentially needing to be moved underground.

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America will no longer have a safe haven for mischief and the establishment of military bases in the region.

This re-evaluation of the U.S. military's presence in the Middle East follows Iran's widespread strikes, which damaged at least 20 U.S. sites. Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had previously asserted that "America will no longer have a safe haven for mischief and the establishment of military bases in the region." Despite the damage, a U.S. Central Command spokesman stated that the U.S. military struck Iran harder, with only two U.S. fatalities resulting from over 8,000 Iranian projectiles.

The consideration of relocating to Israel's Negev region includes options for establishing a new, large-scale base or expanding an existing air force base to accommodate U.S. forces. This strategic realignment underscores the U.S. military's desire for reduced vulnerability in the Gulf.

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Centcom rightfully prioritized the protection of people over buildings, and our strategy of protecting people worked. Iran shot more than 8,000 missiles and drones, and only two hits resulted in US fatalities.