Iran launched a large-scale retaliatory attack on February 28, 2026, hours after the United States and Israel struck targets across the country, firing waves of drones and ballistic missiles at Gulf states that host American military installations.
The Retaliatory Strikes
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed it had launched a “comprehensive retaliatory operation” using a combination of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and attack drones. According to IRGC statements, the targets included US military bases and facilities across multiple Gulf countries.
Regional air defense systems were activated across the Persian Gulf as missiles and drones were tracked heading toward Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia — all nations hosting significant US military presence.
Gulf States Under Fire
The attacks represented an escalation that drew multiple regional countries directly into the conflict. Defense officials across the Gulf reported activating their most advanced air defense systems, including US-supplied Patriot batteries and domestically developed interceptor systems.
Initial reports indicated that while many of the incoming projectiles were intercepted, some struck their intended targets, causing damage to military and civilian infrastructure. The full extent of damage was not immediately clear as Gulf governments restricted media access to affected areas.
Strategic Calculation
Military analysts noted that Iran’s decision to strike Gulf states — rather than limiting its retaliation to Israel — reflected a deliberate strategic calculation. By targeting the regional infrastructure that enables US military operations, Tehran sought to raise the costs of the conflict for Washington’s regional partners.
“Iran is attempting to fracture the coalition by making Gulf states pay a price for hosting American forces,” said one regional security analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity.
IRGC Statement
In a televised address, the IRGC spokesperson declared that the retaliatory strikes were “only the beginning” and warned that any country providing military support or basing rights for operations against Iran would be considered a legitimate target.
The statement explicitly named Bahrain, the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, warning them to “expel American forces immediately or face continued strikes.”
US Response
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that several installations in the region had come under attack but stated that air defense systems had “performed effectively.” CENTCOM did not immediately confirm or deny casualties at US facilities.
The Pentagon issued a statement reaffirming the US commitment to protecting its forces and allies in the region, warning Iran that further attacks would be met with “overwhelming force.”
Regional Impact
Several Gulf airlines began suspending flights as airspace across the region became contested. Commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz came under immediate pressure, with major maritime companies issuing advisories warning of heightened risks to vessels transiting the waterway.
The retaliatory strikes underscored the broader regional dimensions of the conflict, transforming what began as a US-Israeli operation against Iran into a wider confrontation that directly threatened the security of multiple Gulf states.