Iran Launches New Wave of Drone Strikes Against US Military Bases
Iran's Operation Saeqeh Intensifies
Iran has declared the initiation of the tenth phase of Operation Saeqeh, asserting that its military has executed a fresh series of drone attacks targeting US military installations in Kuwait and Bahrain. This escalation comes as tensions between Tehran and Washington have surged in recent days, following the breakdown of a ceasefire established earlier this year. The Iranian Army's statement indicated that the operation aimed at various American military assets, including communication systems, radar setups, air defense mechanisms, and fuel storage sites. These claims have yet to be independently verified, and there has been no immediate response from the United States regarding the reported assaults.
The Iranian Armed Forces say they launched attack against U.S. military sites in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, claiming to have targeted radar and air defense systems. pic.twitter.com/sbVUyM5L8w
— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) July 16, 2026
Targeting of Key Military Installations
The Iranian military reported that drones successfully hit Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain, focusing on communication systems, Super Hawk radar units, and Patriot air defense systems. Tehran claimed that this base had already suffered considerable damage from earlier missile and drone strikes conducted under Operation Saeqeh. Additionally, Iran stated that Arash drones targeted Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, allegedly damaging Patriot missile systems, radar installations, and fuel storage areas. The Iranian military noted that the Patriot systems at this base were crucial for safeguarding American transport aircraft and MQ-9 Reaper drones operating from there.
In its announcement, the Iranian Army emphasized that ongoing US military actions have only reinforced Iran's resolve to protect its national interests. They asserted that the nation's military strength is bolstered by public support, operational readiness, and the legacy of its fallen heroes.
Recent Strikes Follow Previous Operations
This latest announcement follows the ninth phase of Operation Saeqeh, during which Iran claimed to have conducted drone strikes against Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan. According to reports from Iran's Fars News Agency, these drones targeted fixed radar systems, communication networks, and fuel depots at the US-operated facility. Iran stated that this operation was a response to recent attacks on its territory, including a reported strike on the Bampur barracks in Iranshahr, which Tehran claims resulted in the deaths of seven Iranian soldiers. The situation continues to escalate, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, despite previous diplomatic efforts, including a Pakistan-mediated agreement aimed at easing tensions between Iran and the US. Both nations have engaged in military operations recently, with repeated strikes on military infrastructure, naval assets, and strategic facilities throughout the broader Middle East. As of the time of publication, neither the US Department of Defense nor US Central Command (CENTCOM) had confirmed Iran's assertions regarding the latest drone strikes.