Tensions in the Middle East surged after Iran launched ballistic missiles toward Israel, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Iran carried out the strikes in response to a joint US-Israeli attack near the offices of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Soon after the launches, people heard a massive explosion in Dubai. Blasts also shook Abu Dhabi. Two residents in Abu Dhabi confirmed hearing the explosions. Reports said explosions were also heard across Doha and Riyadh. Qatari air defence systems intercepted at least one incoming missile.

It remains unclear whether US air bases in Abu Dhabi and Doha were directly targeted. In Abu Dhabi, the UAE Air Force and the US Air Force operate from Al Dhafra Air Base. Earlier, the UAE temporarily and partially closed its airspace as a precaution.

In Doha, Al Udeid Air Base serves as the forward headquarters of US Central Command. The base covers 24 hectares and hosts significant American military assets.

Missile Strike Targets US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain

Bahrain confirmed that a missile attack targeted the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in the island nation. Authorities did not release full details. Bahrain’s National Communication Centre said, “The Fifth Fleet’s service centre was subjected to a missile attack. We will provide you with details later."

The US Navy’s Fifth Fleet oversees operations across the Gulf, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean. Several US naval vessels operate from Bahrain, including anti-mine ships and logistical support vessels.

US Troops on Alert in Saudi Arabia

The US reportedly has more than 2,000 troops stationed in Saudi Arabia. Some are based about 60 km south of Riyadh at Prince Sultan Air Base. The base supports Patriot missile batteries and Terminal High Altitude Area Defence systems. Officials have not confirmed whether American forces in Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, or Doha were hit.

Trump Says Operations Aim to Protect Americans

The escalation began after Israel launched pre-emptive strikes inside Iran with US support. US President Donald Trump said the action aimed to protect American citizens.

“Short time ago, the US military began major combat operation in Iran. Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime," Trump said.

He added, “Terrible and malicious people. Iran must not have nuclear weapons. Never. This regime will learn that it must not challenge American military power…We’re going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally, again, obliterated. We’re going to annihilate their Navy."

Israel Activates Missile Defence

The Israel Defense Forces confirmed that missiles were launched from Iran toward Israeli territory following the joint strike. The military said it activated its defence systems immediately.

“A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat. In the past few minutes, the Home Front Command has sent a precautionary directive directly to mobile phones in the relevant areas," the IDF posted on X.

Authorities sent emergency alerts to residents in affected areas, instructing them to seek shelter.

Iran Warns of Wider Consequences

A senior Iranian official warned that all US and Israeli assets in the Middle East are now legitimate targets.

“All American and Israeli assets and interests in the Middle East have become a legitimate target. There are no red lines after this aggression, and everything is possible, including scenarios that were not previously considered," the official said.

He added, “The United States and Israel have started an aggression and a war that will have wide and long-lasting repercussions. We were not surprised by the joint American-Israeli aggression and we have a complex response with no time limit," and described calls for restraint as “unacceptable and mere wishful thinking".

The direct exchange of missile attacks marks one of the most serious escalations in the region in recent years. Military forces across the Gulf remain on high alert as the situation continues to unfold.