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Bahrain discloses: 125 ballistic missiles and 211 drones intercepted since war began

·Bahrain

Bahrain disclosed on Day 16 that its air defenses have intercepted 125 ballistic missiles and 211 drones since the Iran war began — a striking volume for the tiny island nation of 1.5 million people. Bahrain hosts the US Navy Fifth Fleet. Iranian strikes have hit Bahrain's ports, a hotel, a refinery, and a water desalination plant. At least one person has been killed.

Bahrain's government disclosed on March 15, 2026 (Day 16) that its air defense systems have intercepted 125 missiles and 211 drones since the start of the Iran war on February 28 — a total of 336 airborne threats in 16 days. The Times of Israel reported the disclosure. Bahrain, roughly the size of Singapore with a population of 1.5 million, hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet and Naval Support Activity Bahrain — making it a top-tier Iranian target. Despite its small size, Bahrain relies on US-made air defense systems including the Patriot and NASAMS. Iranian strikes on Bahrain have hit the capital Manama's port, a hotel, a refinery, and a water desalination plant. At least one person has been killed. The cumulative 336-intercept figure is extraordinary: it means Bahrain averaged 21 incoming missiles or drones per day over the first 16 days of the conflict.

Actor responses

United StatesNEUTRALRESPONSE

Bahrain's air defenses have performed exceptionally in intercepting 125 missiles and 211 drones. The US commends Bahraini defense efforts and stands by our Fifth Fleet partner. Iran will be held accountable.

IranOPPOSINGRESPONSE

Bahrain has made itself a target by hosting the US Fifth Fleet and supporting American operations against Iran. IRGC strikes on Bahrain will continue until US forces leave the island kingdom.