Acting Navy secretary says Iran severely damaged US base in Bahrain

Acting U.S. Navy secretary Hung Cao told reporters that Iranian forces “blew the hell out of” the Naval Support Activity in Bahrain, a key logistics hub for the Fifth Fleet, causing extensive damage to the installation’s infrastructure. The statement, delivered during a briefing on the incident, confirmed that the attack resulted in the loss of critical communications equipment, fuel storage facilities and several support buildings, though no U.S. personnel were reported injured. Emergency response teams were dispatched immediately, and the base’s operational capability has been temporarily reduced while repairs are assessed.

The strike marks a significant escalation in the ongoing regional tensions between Tehran and Washington, following a series of confrontations in the Gulf over maritime security and nuclear concerns. U.S. officials indicated that a joint investigation with allied partners is underway to determine the precise nature of the Iranian action and to evaluate potential retaliatory measures. Diplomatic channels have been activated to address the incident, and the Navy is reviewing contingency plans to ensure continued readiness of its forces in the area.