AP analysis: Iran hit 26 US bases in Middle East, billions in damage

An Associated Press analysis found that Iranian strikes damaged or destroyed structures on 26 US military bases and other sites across the Middle East. The strikes, carried out by Iran or Iranian-backed militias, numbered more than 115 drone or missile attacks through August.

The AP verified the damage using satellite imagery from multiple providers and interviews with four regional officials. Iran initially targeted aircraft hangars and systems that detect incoming strikes, which cleared the way for later attacks on warehouses and troop housing.

“Iran's strikes on more than two dozen US bases in the Middle East focused on early-warning systems before hitting aircraft and buildings, causing billions of dollars in equipment damage.”

Equipment damage is estimated at billions of dollars. From April 1 to June 30 alone, Iranian strikes damaged and destroyed hundreds of buildings and other structures on US bases.

Two regional officials said the United States has moved many of its assets out of the Persian Gulf. The relocated equipment includes aircraft, air defense systems, communications systems and other gear crucial to base operations.

The damage raises questions about American defenses in the region as President Donald Trump considers new strikes after Tuesday's midterm elections. Tehran has vowed major retaliation if the US and Israel strike again.

The Trump administration and the US military have provided few details about the conflict's toll on people and equipment. The AP analysis offers new insight into Iran's strategy during the eight-month war and what precisely has been damaged on American bases.