Analysis & Reports

Iranian forces launched a large-scale retaliatory attack against the UAE and other Gulf states from February 28 to March 29, 2026, firing 414 ballistic missiles, 1,914 drone sorties, and 15 cruise missiles. The UAE's air defense systems intercepted most attacks, but civilian infrastructure was damaged, resulting in 11 deaths and 178 injuries. The Strait of Hormuz was closed to US-associated vessels, causing a significant drop in tanker traffic and a surge in oil prices.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Mar 30 2026Loading...

U.S. forces are suspected of deploying BLU-91 landmines near Kafari, approximately 12 miles from Shiraz, Iran, marking a controversial military action. This deployment aims to disrupt the movement of Iranian missile transport vehicles. Military experts confirm the use of these landmines, which are designed to detonate upon detecting large vehicles. Iranian media has issued warnings to local residents regarding the dangers posed by these explosives.

Israeli Defense Forces are currently striking Iranian military facilities in Tehran as of March 30, 2023. This operation involves direct military action against identified targets in the city.

U.S. President Trump announced that negotiations with Iran are progressing through Pakistan, with approximately 3000 targets remaining to be bombed after 13000 have already been struck. He did not provide specific details regarding a potential ceasefire agreement or the reopening of the Hormuz Strait.

On March 29, hundreds of U.S. special operations forces arrived in the Middle East, joining thousands of Marines and Army paratroopers. The total U.S. troop presence in the region has exceeded 50,000, with an increase of about 10,000 personnel. The deployment includes members of the Army Rangers and Navy SEALs, who are not yet assigned specific missions, while approximately 2,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division are also being positioned for potential operations against Iran.

On March 29, multiple missiles struck a military base in Kuwait City, injuring 10 soldiers. The Kuwaiti military reported detecting 14 enemy ballistic missiles and 12 drones in the airspace prior to the attack. The injured personnel are receiving medical treatment, and damage to the base has been confirmed.

A shell exploded at a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) position near Adchit Al Qusayr on March 29, 2023, resulting in the death of one peacekeeper and injuries to another. UNIFIL is currently investigating the source of the shell and has urged all parties to uphold their obligations under international law to protect UN personnel and property.

Iran conducted airstrikes on U.S. military bases located in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain on March 30, 2023. Satellite images confirmed that the Prince Sultan Air Base was hit four times, damaging a refueling aircraft and an AWACS plane. Additionally, the U.S. Air Force base in Bahrain suffered damage from Iranian missile strikes.

Iran released satellite images on March 30 showing the destruction of U.S. military facilities at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. The images indicate that a tanker and an AWACS were destroyed, with additional damage reported to nearby aircraft. The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed the complete destruction of the U.S. E-3 AWACS at the base.

Iran released satellite images on March 29 showing strikes on U.S. military facilities in Bahrain, including logistics support centers, fuel storage facilities, and hangars.

U.S. Central Command Commander Brad Cooper visited Israel on March 29 and met with IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. They discussed ongoing joint military operations against Iran, particularly focusing on its weapons production industry.

U.S. and Israeli forces conducted airstrikes on power facilities in Tehran and Alborz Province on March 29, causing blackouts in several communities. The strikes damaged a high-voltage transmission tower and a substation, impacting electricity supply. Reports indicate that some residential buildings were also hit. The electricity supply has since been restored.

Iranian armed forces declared that the residences of U.S. and Israeli military commanders and political officials are now legitimate targets for strikes. This announcement was made by a spokesperson on March 29, 2023, in Tehran, indicating a significant escalation in military rhetoric against these nations.

Iran launched a missile and drone attack on the Prince Sultan Air Base on the 27th, damaging at least 1 E-3 AWACS and multiple KC-135 tankers. The attack resulted in injuries to over 10 U.S. military personnel, with two sustaining serious injuries. The loss of the E-3 AWACS is expected to significantly impact U.S. military operations in the region.

The USS Tripoli, carrying approximately 3500 sailors and Marines, has arrived in the Central Command area, while the USS George H.W. Bush strike group has departed for the Middle East. Additionally, 2000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division are being deployed to the region. These movements indicate preparations for potential military operations against Iran, with an increase in U.S. military presence in the area.

Iranian Army Air Defense Forces shot down an MQ-9 Reaper drone in the Strait of Hormuz on March 29. The incident was reported by the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting.

The F/A-18 Super Hornet is currently engaged in combat operations in Iran as it nears retirement. The aircraft has received extensive upgrades, enhancing its operational capabilities. Despite its modernization, the F/A-18 is not classified as stealthy and faces challenges against contemporary air defenses. The U.S. Navy plans to eventually replace the F/A-18 with next-generation aircraft.

An E-3 AWACS belonging to the U.S. Air Force was reportedly destroyed by Iranian missile and drone strikes at a Saudi airbase on March 29, 2023. The strikes hit the aircraft near its tail section, resulting in significant structural damage. Photographic evidence has been released showing the extent of the damage.

An Iranian missile struck an industrial area in Beersheba on March 29, igniting a fire and causing a hazardous material leak. Israeli emergency services are on-site, with three specialized teams assessing the situation. Nearby residents have been advised to stay in safe areas to avoid inhaling harmful substances.

The Pentagon is preparing for weeks of ground operations in Iran as U.S. forces, including Marines from the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group and elements from the 82nd Airborne Division, amass in the region. This follows an Iranian missile and drone attack that injured U.S. service members in Saudi Arabia. Decisions on the operations now rest with President Trump, as the U.S. military continues to respond to escalating threats.