Iran Claims Assault on US Base in Bahrain, As Part of Widespread Counterattacks.

Tehran reports attacking a US naval base in Bahrain, as Iran launched operations across the region in retaliation for a "massive" and continuing offensive targeting the nation by the US and Israel.

Large columns of dark smoke were observed billowing from an area near the command center of the American Fifth Fleet in Manama, Bahrain. The scope of any damage is unclear and the American officials has yet to issue a statement.

Airspace Engagements

Elsewhere across the region, the United Arab Emirates, the State of Qatar and the State of Kuwait - which all house American military installations - reported they have shot down missiles in their territorial skies.

In Doha, Qatar's defence ministry announced it had intercepted a number of projectiles seemingly aimed at the al-Udeid air base, the largest American base in the Middle East.

Iran's Declared Retaliation

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard stated it was attacking US bases and assets as part of operation "Truthful Promise 4", in retaliation for the attack on Iran initiated by the United States and its ally Israel on Saturday.

That US-Israeli operation - initiated at around 06:15 GMT - has so far targeted areas linked to the Iranian leadership, with President Trump urging the Iranian people to rise up against the leadership.

Regional Fallout

In Israel, sirens were heard across the country after the Israeli military said it had detected an incoming Iranian missile barrage.

The defence ministry of the UAE said in a statement that the nation has been subjected to a "a blatant attack involving Iranian ballistic missiles".

"Emirati air defenses engaged the projectiles with high efficiency and destroyed a number of missiles," it added.

Officials reported wreckage fell on a neighborhood in Abu Dhabi, resulting in some property damage and killing a civilian.

The US Air Force operates from the Al Dhafra base, to the south of Abu Dhabi, along with the Emirati Air Force.