Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait early Wednesday, striking at U.S. military installations in the region.

Bahrain's Defense Ministry reported that its forces, alongside U.S. units, intercepted three missiles and multiple drones aimed at the kingdom, which hosts the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters. Kuwait's main airport sustained damage from the barrage, resulting in at least one death and dozens of injuries, according to reports.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for the strikes, describing them as retaliation for recent U.S. attacks on Iranian targets, including a military ground control station on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran said the operations targeted the Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain and other American-linked sites.

The exchanges mark the latest flare-up in the ongoing 2026 Iran war, which began in late February with initial U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian leadership and infrastructure. A ceasefire agreed in April has faced repeated strains amid brinkmanship over the Strait of Hormuz and regional proxy conflicts.

Bahrain and Kuwait condemned the attacks, with both nations activating air raid sirens and urging residents to seek shelter. The U.S. military confirmed its counterstrikes on Qeshm Island in response to the overnight threats.

Regional observers note that the strikes continue a pattern of Iranian retaliation against Gulf states hosting American forces, despite earlier diplomatic efforts to de-escalate. Oil markets reacted with upward pressure on prices amid concerns over disruptions to shipping lanes.

No immediate casualties among U.S. personnel were reported in Bahrain, though investigations into impacts on civilian areas continue.