Bahrain and Kuwait reportedly conducted direct military strikes against targets within Iran earlier this month, marking the first known direct attacks by the two Gulf nations against Tehran. The Wall Street Journal, citing individuals familiar with the matter, reported that the strikes targeted drone and missile storage facilities, as well as other military sites.
These operations are understood to have followed weeks of Iranian attacks targeting both Bahrain and Kuwait, nations that host U.S. military bases. According to the report, officials in Bahrain and Kuwait concluded that sustained Iranian attacks could no longer be met without a direct military response.
The United Arab Emirates is also reported to have played a role, providing intelligence on potential targets and offering defensive air cover. This collaborative effort signifies a growing security operation by Gulf Arab states aimed at Iran.
Despite its reported involvement in providing intelligence and air cover, the UAE has publicly advocated for de-escalation of regional tensions, according to a statement cited by The Wall Street Journal.
Spokespeople for the governments of Bahrain and Kuwait did not immediately respond to requests for comment.