Bahrain says forces intercepted 124 missiles, 203 drones since Feb. 28

Bahrain said Saturday it has intercepted and destroyed 124 missiles and 203 drones since what it described as "Iranian attacks" on the kingdom began on Feb. 28, according to a statement by the Bahrain Defense Force. The Defense Force said air defense systems continue to confront "sinful Iranian attacks" targeting the kingdom, adding that the interceptions took place during successive waves of assaults since late February.

Attack details

The statement did not specify the types of missiles involved. However, several Arab countries targeted by similar attacks have previously said they intercepted ballistic and cruise missiles, suggesting Iran is employing a variety of systems in its retaliatory campaign.

UAE incident

In the UAE, authorities in the Emirate of Fujairah said a fire broke out after debris from a drone that was "successfully intercepted" by air defenses fell to the ground, without causing injuries. Civil defense teams in Fujairah were working to contain the fire, officials said, urging the public not to circulate rumors and to rely only on official sources for information.

Conflict context

Since Israel and the US launched joint attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, killing some 1,200 people according to Iranian authorities, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and more than 150 schoolgirls, hostilities have escalated dramatically. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets. Bahrain, which hosts the US Fifth Fleet headquarters, has been among the most frequently targeted Gulf states.

Regional impact

The sustained campaign has tested regional air defense capabilities, with Gulf states reporting hundreds of interceptions while attempting to avoid direct involvement in the conflict. The damage from falling debris in Fujairah highlights the risks even successful interceptions pose to civilian areas.