Explosions have been reported in key Gulf states—Abu Dhabi (UAE), Manama (Bahrain), and Kuwait—as the US-Israel joint operations against Iran escalate into regional spillover. These incidents follow Iran’s retaliatory missile and drone strikes targeting US military installations in the area.
According to updates from Al Jazeera and other outlets on February 28, 2026:
- A loud explosion was reported in Abu Dhabi.
- Explosions rocked Manama, Bahrain, including strikes on the headquarters of the US Navy’s 5th Fleet in the Juffair district; Bahrain’s authorities confirmed missile attacks and issued emergency alerts urging residents to seek shelter.
- Multiple blasts were heard in Kuwait, triggering civil defense sirens and alerts; reports point to hits near Ali al-Salem Airbase or other military sites.
These explosions appear linked to Iran’s retaliation against US bases hosting American forces, which support the ongoing “major combat operations” announced by President Donald Trump. Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles and drones toward Israel and US assets in response to strikes on Tehran, military sites, missile facilities, and nuclear-related targets.