Blasts in Bahrain as Iran claims attack on US base

Bahrain experienced a series of blasts early Sunday as Iran's Guards claimed to have attacked a US military base in the country, marking its second such strike in three days, reports state media. Sirens sounded and authorities issued alerts, urging residents to seek shelter, a response to the first such warnings since September.

Bahrain, home to a major US naval base, has been a frequent target of Iranian drone and missile strikes during the ongoing Middle East conflict. Despite Iran's recent attempts to disrupt shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf nation has managed to intercept and neutralize several Iranian attacks. The foreign ministry confirmed that air defense systems successfully shot down Iranian drones, preventing them from reaching their intended targets.

The blasts were first heard around 4:00 am, followed by a second series of explosions approximately an hour later. The interior ministry urged residents to remain calm and seek safe locations, later advising them to follow official news channels for updates. Iran's Revolutionary Guards stated that six drones belonging to their Aerospace Force targeted a US radar system at the Al-Riffa helicopter base in Bahrain.

The Guards claimed this action was retaliation for perceived aggression from the US. Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that it had shot down two Iranian drones targeting Bahrain, with no reported casualties or damage. Iran's war in the region has resulted in extensive targeting of infrastructure, including airports, seaports, energy facilities, and US assets across the Gulf.