WASHINGTON, June 19 (Alliance News): As tensions escalate following Israel’s airstrikes on Iran, the United States is weighing direct involvement—a move that could endanger thousands of American troops stationed across the Middle East.
President Donald Trump recently hinted that Washington may join Israel’s military operations, increasing the threat of Iranian retaliation on US forces deployed across volatile regional bases.
These troops, already targeted by Iranian-aligned groups during the Israel-Hamas conflict, are now at even greater risk. The US military presence across the Middle East, managed under CENTCOM (US Central Command), spans multiple key installations:
Bahrain:
Naval Support Activity Bahrain hosts the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet and Naval Forces Central Command. It serves as a base for several US vessels, including anti-mine ships and Coast Guard fast-response cutters. The base plays a strategic role in American naval dominance in the Gulf region.
Iraq:
With around 2,500 US troops stationed at Al-Asad and Erbil air bases, Iraq remains a critical location despite its close ties with Iran. US personnel in Iraq and Syria faced a wave of drone and rocket attacks by Iran-backed militias after October 2023 but have largely avoided major incidents since.
Kuwait:
Home to Camp Arifjan—CENTCOM’s forward Army headquarters—Kuwait also houses Ali al-Salem Air Base, which hosts the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing. It serves as the main airlift hub in the region and operates MQ-9 Reaper drones.
Qatar:
Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar is one of the largest US military bases in the region. It hosts the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing and provides logistical support including aerial refueling, surveillance, and medical evacuation operations. It also serves as a command center for air and special operations.
Syria:
US troops remain stationed across northern Syria, supporting anti-ISIS operations. The Pentagon recently announced it would halve its troop numbers to fewer than 1,000. Still, the remaining personnel operate in highly sensitive areas, especially vulnerable in the event of broader conflict.
United Arab Emirates (UAE):
Al Dhafra Air Base hosts the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing and plays a crucial role in air surveillance and strike capabilities. It also houses the Gulf Air Warfare Center, which focuses on missile defense training with regional allies.
If the US commits to active military operations alongside Israel, these bases—and the personnel stationed at them—could become prime targets for retaliatory strikes from Iran or its regional proxies.
Amid the mounting crisis, Washington’s next steps could redefine regional security and intensify global geopolitical tensions.
