The 31st wave. That is how Iran’s Army numbered the latest round of its Saeqeh (Lightning) Operation, which it says hit American-run air bases in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates early Thursday.
According to the Army, missiles and attack drones struck Ahmed al-Jaber Air Base in Kuwait and damaged its communications systems and fighter aircraft hangars. In the UAE, its forces went after troop deployment areas and radar systems at Al Minhad Air Base. The Army called the Kuwaiti base a key logistics and support hub for U.S. forces in West Asia, with a major role in air operations and surveillance. Al Minhad, it said, is an important centre for air support and for transporting foreign forces.
Iran framed the strikes as payback. The Army said they answered the killing of Iranian civilians and members of the armed forces in what it called unprovoked U.S. aggression.
The strikes that came first
The announcement followed a new wave of U.S. strikes on cities in southern Iran. Iran’s Health Ministry said at least 18 people died and 142 were wounded. One reported target was a residential home in Kouhestak, in Sirik County, Hormozgan Province, where a wedding ceremony was taking place. Five civilians died there, including a four-year-old child, and more than 70 people were hurt.
“The brave men of the Army’s response to any attack by the terrorist US Army has been harsh and devastating, and will continue until final victory and the punishment of the aggressor,” the Army said.
What Arab sources reported
Arab sources separately reported missile and drone attacks on U.S. bases in Kuwait. One important location at a base was reportedly hit, and flight activity at Kuwait International Airport was suspended because of the risk of further air attacks.
The damage claims come from the Iranian Army’s own statement.
