Amid nuclear tensions, the Middle East on Saturday entered a new stage of overt conflict following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which led to retaliatory missile launches and an alleged assault on a significant US naval installation in the Gulf.
Meanwhile, Bahrain reported that a missile strike had aimed at the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet located in the island nation, according to The Sudan Times. However, it did not offer any additional immediate information regarding the attack, such as the level of damage incurred or the presence of any casualties.
The Fifth Fleet of the US Navy, based in Bahrain, is responsible for overseeing American naval activities throughout the Gulf region, which includes the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz.
Also Read: Why did US strike Iran today? All we know as explosions rock Tehran amid nuclear tension
US and Israel vs Iran
This development occurs amidst increased tensions following strikes conducted by the US and Israel on Iran.
According to Iranian media reports, one of the initial strikes was reportedly near the offices of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iranian media also reported explosions and strikes occurring in various locations across the country, with smoke observed rising from areas within the capital, Tehran.
US military operations in Iran
On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced that the US had started “major combat operations” in Iran. He warned that American casualties could occur as the campaign progressed.
Trump stated that the airstrikes were intended to eliminate Iranian missiles and to destroy its naval forces. This operation came after numerous US-Israeli warnings directed at Tehran regarding its military initiatives.
The exchange of hostilities signifies a significant escalation in the long-standing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear aspirations and missile advancements. With reports of attacks occurring within Iran, missile launches aimed at Israel, and a strike on the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, the conflict now spans multiple fronts in the region.
