According to reports published in the Indian media amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict in the Middle East, the hostilities are no longer confined to just missiles and drones; US military bases, intelligence networks, and thousands of deployed troops are now directly at risk. With Iran targeting US military bases and regional tensions steadily rising, the US is reviewing its intelligence capabilities and military deployments. Six sources have provided this information, noting that these discussions are being held discreetly.
The United States has long maintained a strong military presence in the Middle East. The September 11, 2001, attacks on the U.S. shook the entire world; in their aftermath, the U.S. expanded a network of permanent military and intelligence facilities across half a dozen countries, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Iran, Yemen, and Libya. However, concerns arose when Iran launched multiple attacks on U.S. bases in the region, resulting in the deaths of 18 American soldiers. This has exposed deep vulnerabilities in American infrastructure in the Middle East.
Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the U.S. naval presence in Bahrain, military installations in Kuwait and Jordan, and other bases in the region are considered crucial to U.S. operations. The ongoing conflict has rendered these bases sources of strategic strength while also making them potentially vulnerable targets. According to reports, approximately 50,000 US troops are active in the Middle East, comprising air defense units, naval forces, and other military personnel. Two sources familiar with these covert discussions revealed that the US is considering constructing or relocating certain military bases underground. This measure would better protect these bases and the troops stationed there from missile and drone attacks in the event of a prolonged conflict with Iran.
The problem now is that, following the escalation of the conflict between the US and Iran, these American bases have themselves become potential targets. Iran has previously launched missile and drone attacks on US troops and bases. In July, reports emerged that an Iranian attack in Jordan had resulted in the deaths of two US military personnel and left one missing. A source revealed that the US had long been aware of the vulnerabilities in its infrastructure in the Middle East but had never taken action to address them. The primary concern revolves around the intelligence and surveillance capabilities that enable the US to monitor Iran’s missile activities, drone launches, and military movements.
Determining a missile’s trajectory and potential target before an attack is a crucial component of US military strategy. Consequently, while the intelligence network is vital, securing it has become increasingly challenging. Meanwhile, the threat of attacks on US military installations has led to a tightening of security measures. Iran has already threatened and taken action against certain US bases in the region. The US presence in Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and other locations ensures that this conflict is not merely a confrontation between the US and Iran, but effectively turns the entire Gulf region into a potential battlefield.
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