At least 17 US sites damaged in Middle East strikes: Analysis
Several of the US sites have been struck multiple times since the start of the conflict.
Iran has launched a series of drone and missile attacks targeting US military and diplomatic sites across the Middle East, causing damage to bases, air defence systems, and communication infrastructure, according to a New York Times analysis.
The analysis identified at least 17 damaged US sites, several of which have been struck multiple times since the start of the conflict. The assessment drew on commercial satellite imagery, verified social media videos, and statements from US and Iranian sources.
Military bases affected
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Iran's strikes have targeted major US facilities, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, and Ali Al Salem and Camp Buehring in Kuwait. Satellite images show damage to buildings and communication structures at several locations.
At Camp Buehring, a drone reportedly exploded near sports facilities on 1 March, with no casualties reported. The Pentagon estimates the cost of damage to the US Navy Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain on 28 February at around $200 million. The strikes have killed at least seven American service members, according to Pentagon reports.
Air defense and communications
Several attacks targeted radar and communications systems, including components of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system. Satellite imagery shows significant damage at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan and other regional facilities. Michael Eisenstadt of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy said such radars would be "difficult to repair or replace," while Seth G Jones of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies noted that US military capabilities are unlikely to be significantly degraded due to redundancy in sensor networks.
Diplomatic sites
Iran also struck US diplomatic installations, including embassies in Kuwait City, Riyadh, and the consulate in Dubai, temporarily forcing closures. No injuries were reported at these sites. On 4 March, an Iranian missile was intercepted over Turkish airspace near Incirlik Air Base; Iran denied responsibility.
US Central Command commander Adm. Brad Cooper said on 7 March that Iranian ballistic missile attacks have dropped by 90% and drone attacks by 83% since the conflict's opening days. Despite the decline, Iran continues to target American interests across the region, raising concerns about the security of both personnel and critical infrastructure.
