Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao confirmed significant damage to the U.S. Navy base in Bahrain due to Iranian strikes. This rare admission casts doubt on U.S. capabilities in the Middle East. Initially, the Pentagon minimized the impact of the February 28 strikes. But Cao stated, “they blew the hell out of Bahrain.”
The Pentagon declined to comment on intelligence matters. Retired Vice Admiral Robert Murrett indicated recovery to full operation will take time. Iranian retaliation followed U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, targeting Bahrain, where the U.S. Fifth Fleet is based at NSA Bahrain.
Extent of the Damage
Satellite images and reports highlighted damage to the base, initially unacknowledged by the Pentagon. The Wall Street Journal noted extensive impacts on the command center and other facilities. Murrett emphasized Bahrain’s strategic importance to Navy operations. He pointed out Iran’s broader strategy of targeting U.S. military sites in the region. Murrett noted the acute impact on naval operations.
Iran’s Reaction
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi referenced Cao’s comments with pride, highlighting Iran’s military actions. His statement criticized U.S. spending on conflicts linked to Israeli interests.
Operational Impact
Damage to NSA Bahrain affected operations involving the USS Abraham Lincoln, causing extended deployment. Admiral Daryl Caudle acknowledged delays in resuming full logistics capabilities in Bahrain. Retired Captain John Cordle highlighted logistical and strategic challenges due to the base’s condition.
Cao mentioned a task force examining repair needs for NSA Bahrain. Murrett acknowledged increased logistical challenges but reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining effectiveness.
Other U.S. Bases Targeted
U.S. forces face attacks across the Middle East, impacting operations at various bases. Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE and Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait sustained damage. Additionally, Iran’s forces targeted the Al-Azraq base in Jordan.
Overall, Iranian actions forced U.S. Central Command to reposition thousands of personnel. These developments require adaptation and strategic response from the U.S. military.
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