Bahrain intercepts 516 Iranian missiles, drones since Feb. 28

Bahrain’s Defense Force revealed Friday that its air defense systems have successfully intercepted 154 missiles and 362 drones since February 28, the day the US-Israeli offensive against Iran began. In a statement, the General Command of the Bahrain Defense Force said its forces continue to confront what it termed “terrorist Iranian attacks” targeting the kingdom, with intercept operations ongoing.

Scale of defensive operations

The figures highlight the intensity of the aerial campaign directed at the small Gulf nation, which hosts US military assets and has been a frequent target of Iranian retaliation. The intercept tally—516 projectiles in less than a month—underscores the heavy reliance on advanced air defense systems to protect civilian and military infrastructure. Bahraini authorities have previously condemned strikes that caused casualties and damage, calling for an end to the attacks.

Regional context

The attacks are part of Iran’s broader retaliation against the US and Israel following their joint military campaign launched on February 28. That campaign has claimed over 1,340 lives in Iran, including its then‑supreme leader. Tehran has repeatedly targeted what it describes as US sites and interests across Arab Gulf states, including Bahrain, while also striking Israel, Jordan, and Iraq.

Türkiye’s call for restraint

As Gulf states bear the brunt of retaliatory strikes, Türkiye has consistently urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic solutions. Ankara has warned that the targeting of civilian infrastructure and the expansion of hostilities into Gulf nations only deepen regional instability. Turkish officials continue to advocate for de‑escalation, emphasizing that the protection of civilians and adherence to international law must guide any path toward ending the conflict.