Thick smoke over Manama as tensions escalate
Thick black smoke rose over Bahrain’s capital on Saturday after Iranian missiles struck the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Manama, according to video circulating online and initial wire reports.
The attack is part of Tehran’s retaliation for ongoing U.S.-Israeli airstrikes.
Footage from the scene shows multiple fires burning near port cranes and warehouse facilities at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. Dark plumes stretch across the city’s skyline. The fighting began early Saturday morning and continues.
A critical U.S. maritime hub
Naval Support Activity Bahrain serves as the headquarters for U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and the 5th Fleet. From that location, the Navy directs maritime security missions, theater cooperation efforts, and combat operations across the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, and the Arabian Sea.
It also anchors U.S. Central Command’s maritime posture in the region.
The base plays a central role in protecting global energy routes, including three chokepoints that shape the world economy: the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb. Any disruption near these corridors can ripple through oil markets within hours.
Vice Adm. Curt Renshaw assumed command of the facilities in October 2025.
Precautions taken before the strike
U.S. officials had already taken steps to reduce the base’s vulnerability.
On Thursday, ships that had been docked at the installation departed for open water. Personnel on base were reduced to “mission-critical” staffing, reportedly fewer than 100 service members and essential staff.
Those moves may have limited casualties. Initial reporting from Stars and Stripes indicates no confirmed U.S. deaths or injuries as of Saturday afternoon.
The attack has suspended planned evacuations of U.S. military families from the region. It has also prompted heightened alerts for possible follow-on strikes against American forces and assets throughout the Middle East.
Regional implications
An Iranian strike on the 5th Fleet headquarters marks a sharp escalation. The base has long symbolized the U.S. security umbrella over Gulf states and international shipping lanes.
For now, smoke hangs over Manama, Tehran, and other major cities as the region remains on edge.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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