Explosions and air raid sirens were reported across Bahrain on Sunday as authorities urged residents to seek shelter following Iran’s claim that it had attacked a US military base in the Gulf nation.
A journalist reported hearing alarm sirens, while the authorities issued several alerts on social media without identifying the source of the threat.
In a post on X, Bahrain’s Interior Ministry urged residents to remain calm, move to the nearest safe location and follow updates through official channels.
Explosions were heard at about 4:00 am (0100 GMT), according to the AFP journalist. Residents also reported another series of blasts around 6:30 am (0330 GMT).
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said their forces had launched a drone attack on a US radar system at a military base in Bahrain.
According to a statement broadcast by Iranian state television on Sunday, six drones belonging to the Guards’ Aerospace Force targeted the US air defence radar system at the Al-Riffa helicopter base.
“The US air defense radar system at the Al-Riffa helicopter base in Bahrain was targeted by six drones belonging to the IRGC Aerospace Force,” the statement said.
The Guards also warned that any further US military action would attract a stronger response, insisting that the Strait of Hormuz remained closed.
“The Strait of Hormuz is closed, and any aggression by the American enemy will be met with an even harsher and more forceful response,” the statement added.
Iran has restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz during the eight-month conflict, disrupting a major global oil transportation route.
The country has also targeted infrastructure, including airports, seaports, energy facilities and US military assets across the region.
Bahrain, which hosts a major US naval base, is among several Gulf countries affected by Iranian attacks since the conflict began on February 28.
The war started after the United States and Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran.
On Friday, the Revolutionary Guards also claimed to have targeted a US early warning radar system in Bahrain.
The US military said it intercepted two Iranian drones targeting the Gulf nation during that incident.
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees American military operations in the region, reported no casualties or damage.
Last month, CENTCOM said it had helped Gulf countries export 1.5 billion barrels of oil since the summer through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies.