Iran launches retaliatory strikes at targets across Middle East
BBC World
February 28, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Iran has launched retaliatory strikes across the Middle East in response to a US and Israeli attack on Saturday. The first strike occurred near the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, where plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the area. While the extent of the damage is unclear and the US has not yet commented, Iran claimed responsibility for the attacks as part of "Truthful Promise 4," an operation targeting US bases and assets.
Elsewhere in the region, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Kuwait reported intercepting missiles within their airspace. In Qatar, several missiles were intercepted near al-Udeid air base, the largest American base in the area. The UAE's defense ministry stated that its air defense systems successfully intercepted multiple Iranian ballistic missiles, with debris from one missile landing in a residential area of Abu Dhabi, causing material damage and claiming the life of a civilian.
The attack on Iran was initiated by US President Donald Trump, who encouraged Iranians to rise against their government. This move escalates tensions further, with Israel also reporting the detection of an Iranian missile barrage. The strikes highlight the growing instability in the region and raise concerns about potential escalation between Iran and its adversaries. This development is significant for global readers as it underscores the delicate balance of power in the Middle East and its implications for international relations and security.
The situation underscores the ongoing conflict's broader impact on regional stability and US military presence in the area. As tensions continue to rise, the world watches closely for any further developments that could reshape the geopolitical landscape.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/28/2026