Following escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the United States has ramped up its military readiness in the Middle East. Several US embassies in the region have been partially evacuated, and families of US personnel in Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE, and other countries have been called back. President Donald Trump defended the move, warning of the region’s dangers. Alongside, the US has increased deployment of troops and military equipment, raising questions about the extent and location of American military bases in the Middle East.
Where Are the US Military Bases in the Middle East?
The US has maintained a significant military footprint in the Middle East for decades. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, there are at least 19 permanent and temporary US military sites across the region. Eight of these are permanent bases located in Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
A Historical Presence Growing Stronger
The US first deployed troops to the Middle East in July 1958 during the Lebanon crisis, sending combat forces to Beirut. At its peak, nearly 15,000 Marines and Army personnel were stationed in Lebanon. By mid-2025, around 40,000 to 50,000 US troops are estimated to be deployed across the region, spread between large permanent bases and smaller forward operating locations.
Key US Military Bases and Their Roles
- Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar: The largest US military base in the Middle East, established in 1996. Spanning 60 acres, it houses roughly 10,000 personnel and around 100 aircraft and drones. It serves as the forward headquarters for US Central Command (CENTCOM) and plays a crucial role in operations across Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.
- Naval Support Activity (NSA), Bahrain: Located on the former British naval base HMS Juffair, this facility hosts about 9,000 military and civilian staff. It is home to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet and provides security for ships, aircraft, and remote facilities throughout the region.
- Camp Arifjan, Kuwait: Situated 55 km southeast of Kuwait City, this key Army base serves as a major logistics and command hub for US military operations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility. Established in 1999, it supports supply chains and operational planning.
- Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE: A strategic base focused on reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and support for combat air missions. It hosts advanced aircraft such as F-22 Raptors, drones, and AWACS surveillance planes.
- Erbil Air Base, Iraq: Used by US forces for air operations primarily in northern Iraq and Syria, where troops advise Kurdish and Iraqi forces.
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