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Iranian forces say they have struck a US naval base in Bahrain, as Iran launched missile attacks throughout the Middle East in retaliation for a "massive" and ongoing attack targeting the nation by the US and Israel.

Large columns of dark smoke were observed billowing from an area close to the main base of the US Navy's Fifth Fleet in Manama, Bahrain. The scope of any impact is unclear and the American officials has yet to issue a statement.

Missile Defenses Activated

Elsewhere across the region, the UAE, Qatar and the State of Kuwait - each hosting US military bases - stated they have shot down missiles in their airspace.

In the Qatari capital, Qatar's defence ministry stated it had intercepted a number of projectiles apparently targeting the al-Udeid air base, the largest American base in the region.

Iran's Declared Retaliation

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard declared it was striking American facilities and interests as part of military campaign "Truthful Promise 4", in reprisal for the offensive on Iran initiated by the United States and its ally Israel on Saturday.

That initial attack - executed at approximately 09:15 Iran time - has so far struck locations associated with the Iranian leadership, with US President Donald Trump urging the people of Iran to rise up against the government.

Wider Impacts

In the State of Israel, air raid sirens sounded nationwide after the Israel Defense Forces reported it had detected an incoming Iranian missile barrage.

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

"UAE air defence systems dealt with the projectiles with high efficiency and shot down a series of missiles," it added.

Officials reported wreckage fell on a residential area in Abu Dhabi, resulting in some structural damage and fatalities.

The US Air Force operates from Al Dhafra Air Base, to the south of the Emirati capital, along with the UAE Air Force.