Iran Strikes US Bases in UAE and Kuwait Amid Sanctions Pressure, Israel Warns of ‘Desperate Steps’

Iran has carried out strikes targeting US air bases in the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, the latest escalation in a conflict that has now lasted six months. The attacks come despite a new sanctions regime imposed by the Trump administration, which has been characterised as an “economic D-day” aimed at crippling Iran’s economy. The strikes show that Iran retains the ability to strike US military assets in the Gulf region even under heavy military and economic pressure.

In response to the attacks, Israel’s defence chief warned that the intensifying economic sanctions could push Tehran to take “desperate steps” or escalate the conflict further. The official cautioned that a regime facing economic collapse may resort to more extreme measures, potentially widening the scope of the conflict.

The United States under President Trump has threatened further retaliatory strikes, though no immediate US response has been confirmed. The situation remains fluid, with regional tensions at their highest point in years.

Why This Matters

The strikes show Iran can still project power against US assets in the Gulf despite six months of war and severe sanctions, indicating the conflict is far from over.
The Israeli warning suggests diplomatic and economic pressure may be backfiring, pushing Iran toward more aggressive military action rather than capitulation.
The targeting of US bases in the UAE and Kuwait widens the geographic scope of the conflict, threatening to draw in more regional actors.

Background

Iran and the United States have been locked in a cycle of escalation for six months. The Trump administration has pursued a policy of “maximum pressure”, most recently imposing a new sanctions regime described as an “economic D-day”. Iran has meanwhile demonstrated its ability to strike regional targets, including US bases, despite sustained Israeli and US military operations. The conflict has involved direct exchanges of fire, with the US threatening further strikes.

Key Perspectives

Iran: Seeks to demonstrate continued military capability and resilience under sanctions, possibly aiming to force a change in US policy. Israel: Warns that sanctions could backfire, driving Tehran to desperate measures; prefers coordinated pressure that avoids provoking further escalation. US (Trump administration): Has pursued aggressive sanctions and threatened military retaliation, framing the campaign as a decisive economic blow against the Iranian regime.

What to Watch

Confirmation of US retaliatory strikes or other military response.
Status of US bases in the UAE and Kuwait – extent of damage and casualties.
Any indication of Iranian willingness to negotiate or, conversely, further escalation such as strikes on civilian infrastructure or shipping.
Response from Gulf states, particularly the UAE and Kuwait, whose territory has become a battleground.

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