Iran and IRGC Strike US Bases Across Gulf States

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Iranian proxies launched a series of missile and drone attacks against United States military forces and facilities across the Middle East. On July 20, 2026, the IRGC targeted US assets in Bahrain and Kuwait, prompting the Kuwaiti military to activate air defense systems to protect sites including Camp Arifjan and Ali Al Salem Air Base. These strikes followed a pattern of aggression against Jordan and Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman.

Iran justified these operations by citing the presence of US military bases and security cooperation between Washington and these Arab nations. The strikes targeted both military installations and civilian infrastructure, such as airports and desalination plants, to pressure US regional partners. In the United Arab Emirates, the attacks have created a sense of betrayal after the nation provided economic support to Tehran during sanction periods. Meanwhile, the Houthis announced a ban on Saudi ports on the Red Sea.

Simultaneous to the Gulf strikes, explosions were reported in Shiraz, Iran, targeting an alleged enemy site. A Greek cargo ship was also struck by an unidentified projectile near the Strait of Hormuz. While Iran has targeted US-linked facilities, it has largely avoided direct strikes on US naval assets to minimize the risk of an overwhelming American military response. Targeted states, skeptical of long-term US security commitments, are now weighing a return to diplomatic negotiation and appeasement to maintain stability.