An unprecedented wave of retaliation
On 28 February 2026, Iran executed a wide-reaching missile and drone offensive named “True Promise 4”, marking an unprecedented day in Middle Eastern hostilities. Targets spanned six countries: Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. This represented the first time Iran struck all these nations simultaneously during a single campaign.
The offensive was a direct Iranian response to Operation Roaring Lion and Operation Epic Fury, joint military actions conducted by Israel and the United States against multiple Iranian cities including Tehran and Isfahan. US President Donald Trump officially announced the beginning of “major combat operations” in Iran, characterising the strikes as defensive measures against imminent threats.
Scope and impact of the strikes
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards targeted primarily US military installations hosted within those countries, not the host nations themselves. Crucially, in Bahrain, explosions rocked the US Navy 5th Fleet headquarters in Manama, resulting in one confirmed fatality. In the UAE, strikes in Abu Dhabi and Dubai reportedly killed one civilian due to interceptor debris. Qatar’s sophisticated Patriot missile defence systems successfully intercepted incoming missiles above Doha.
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Kuwait’s military responded to missile activity in its airspace, while Jordanian forces shot down two ballistic missiles. Saudi Arabia experienced explosions in Riyadh — though officials remained tight-lipped and notably condemned attacks on Gulf neighbours. Most missiles were neutralised by regional air defences, limiting further casualties and damage.
Context and regional repercussions
The operation underscores the complex web of alliances and enmities in the Gulf region. By predominantly striking US bases, Iran’s actions conveyed a message chiefly directed at American presence rather than Gulf states, many of which condemned the attacks despite hosting US forces. This paradox illustrates the delicate balance nations maintain in the face of escalating US-Iran tensions.
Iranian officials declared the campaign a “legal” retaliation, promising ongoing operations amid a stark warning that Tehran can target any US base or interests across the vicinity. The campaign’s name, “True Promise 4”, signifies the fourth cycle of such retaliatory actions since heightened hostilities began earlier in the year.
Next steps and global significance
As Iran pledges further reprisals and the US affirms its commitment to regional defence, Middle East security hangs in the balance. The day’s coordinated strikes set a new precedent for simultaneous multi-country action in the Gulf, complicating diplomatic efforts and military calculations.
Amid limited verified data on casualties and damage, the situation remains fluid. Observers will be watching closely to see whether this marks a sustained escalation or a strategic message intended to recalibrate deterrence in a perilous geopolitical landscape.
