Iran Says Kamikaze Drones Hit US Forces at UAE’s al-Minhad Air Base

The Islamic Republic of Iran Army has announced a drone operation targeting American army forces at a military base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in response to a deadly US strike on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement on Monday morning, the Iranian army said dozens of suicide drones were used in the operation. The drones targeted areas at al-Minhad Air Base where US military helicopters and personnel were stationed. The base is located about 24 kilometers (15 miles) south of Dubai.

Iran said the operation was carried out in response to a US attack on Larak Island on Sunday night. The attack reportedly killed and wounded several Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) personnel and civilians.

The Iranian army described al-Minhad Air Base as an important logistics and air transport center for foreign forces. It also warned that further operations against US troops could follow.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran’s Army forces remain steadfast in ensuring lasting security and defending Iran’s territory until the enemy threat is removed from the area,” the statement said.

The army also said it would avenge the deaths of those killed in the conflict by confronting “US terrorist forces.”

Larak Island is located in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes. Iranian officials have repeatedly said control of the waterway is a matter of national security and that foreign powers cannot dictate terms in the region.

Iranian officials also said US efforts to challenge Iran’s presence in the Strait of Hormuz show what they described as Washington’s strategic failure.

Earlier on Monday, the IRGC Aerospace Forces said they had also targeted US military facilities in Jordan. The operation focused on technical and maintenance facilities and fighter jet bases at two American air bases.

According to the IRGC Public Relations Department, the operation, codenamed Muhammad ibn Abdullah (PBUH), targeted US positions at King Hussein Air Base near Mafraq and Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Azraq.

The IRGC warned that further aggression would lead to stronger responses against US forces.

“Every shot fired will be met with an even more forceful response,” the statement said.