Washington, May 2: A new investigation by CNN has claimed that at least 16 American military bases and installations across the Middle East were damaged during a 39-day conflict involving Iranian strikes.
According to the report, the affected facilities are located in Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Iraq. Some installations reportedly suffered extensive damage, including critical communications and radar systems, with certain sites described as rendered “virtually inoperable.”
The investigation suggests that high-value military assets, including advanced radar systems, communications infrastructure, and aircraft, were targeted in the strikes. These assets are described as costly and difficult to replace.
The report, based on satellite imagery and interviews with sources in the United States and Gulf countries, indicates varying assessments of the damage. While some evaluations suggest entire facilities were severely affected, others argue that key sites remain repairable due to their strategic importance.
A congressional aide was quoted in the investigation noting that a significant number of US military positions in the region were impacted.
Satellite imagery reportedly supports claims that sensitive installations were hit, particularly those housing advanced surveillance and defense systems.
Pentagon Comptroller Jules “Jay” Hurst III informed lawmakers that the conflict has so far cost the United States around $25 billion, although internal estimates place the figure between $40 billion and $50 billion.
Iran has maintained that US bases in the Gulf region were used for operations against it, describing its strikes as retaliatory actions. The developments come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
