In the wake of the military action ordered by President Trump today, Iran may choose to retaliate by striking U.S. bases and strategic military sites located throughout the Middle East.
One potential target is Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which stands as the largest American military installation in the region.
The U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, headquartered in Bahrain, is another key American presence. It plays a central role in naval operations throughout the Persian Gulf.
Al Asad Air Base in Iraq, which came under fire from Iran in 2020 following the death of Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani, remains a significant deployment hub for thousands of American troops.
Harir Air Base, located in Erbil, Iraq, has previously been attacked by drones launched by Iranian proxy forces, making it another likely option for reprisal.
In southern Syria, the U.S. operates Al Tanf Garrison near the tri-border area of Iraq and Jordan. In January 2024, an Iranian-aligned militia carried out a deadly strike on Tower 22, just a short distance from Al Tanf, killing three American service members.
Ali al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, roughly 20 miles from the Iraqi frontier, hosts the Air Force’s 386th Air Expeditionary Wing and is a key staging location.
Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates is another essential site. It houses the Air Force’s 380th Air Expeditionary Wing, which flies F-22 Raptors along with a range of reconnaissance aircraft and drones.
In addition to these installations, Iran could aim its aggression at American embassies located in nearby countries such as Iraq, the UAE, or Israel.
Beyond direct attacks, Iran could attempt to block the Strait of Hormuz—a strategically vital waterway through which around 25% of global oil supply and about one-third of the world’s liquefied natural gas pass.
According to a U.S. official earlier this month, around 40,000 active-duty American service members are currently stationed either on land in the Middle East or aboard ships in the surrounding waters.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized during Senate testimony on Wednesday that protecting U.S. personnel remains the Pentagon’s top concern while simultaneously advising Trump on possible responses to Iranian aggression.
“We have maximum force protection in the region at all times being maintained,” Hegseth told the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Earlier this month, Hegseth approved the voluntary departure of all military family members from U.S. bases throughout the region, a precautionary measure given the volatile situation.

{Matzav.com}