Iran’s military has released footage showing missile launches aimed at Kuwait and Bahrain, two Gulf states that host major U.S. military bases. The videos, circulated by state-linked media, arrive as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high over nuclear talks and regional military moves.
What the videos show
The footage includes missile systems being fired from unknown locations, with targets identified as Kuwait and Bahrain. Neither country has confirmed any impact or interception. The launches appear to be part of a propaganda display, not a real attack. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has used similar releases in the past to signal its capacity to strike U.S. allies in the region.
Why now
The timing tracks with the latest spike in U.S.-Iran tensions. Washington has been pushing for a new nuclear deal while also maintaining a military presence in the Gulf. Bahrain is home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, and Kuwait hosts roughly 13,500 American troops. It’s not the first time Tehran has threatened these bases, but the video release marks a rare public targeting of two specific neighbors at once.
Reactions so far
Kuwait and Bahrain have not issued official statements on the videos. The U.S. Central Command has not commented either. The lack of a response suggests the launches were likely unarmed test shots or simulated strikes. Still, the imagery is likely to fuel concerns in capitals already wary of Iran’s ballistic missile program.
The videos come as diplomats try to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. No breakthrough has been announced. The next round of talks is expected to take place in the coming weeks, though no date has been set.
