US considers Gulf troop withdrawal amid Iran war vulnerability

The Trump administration is reportedly considering a reduction of its military presence in Gulf states as a consequence of the ongoing war with Iran. This evaluation stems from the demonstrated vulnerability of large US bases in the region to Iranian drone and missile attacks, according to current and former US officials cited in a report by The Washington Post.

The Department of War's policy office is spearheading the review, viewing the conflict as a significant opportunity to reassess the Pentagon's long-standing basing framework in the Middle East. The US has already signaled that it may not fully restore bases that have been attacked.

Former senior US officials have been vocal about the need for a drawdown or relocation. David Petraeus, former director of the CIA and head of Centcom, noted a diminished willingness to occupy bases given Iran's demonstrated capabilities. General Frank McKenzie, another former Centcom head, suggested moving US bases to Israel and neighboring countries to better safeguard assets from Iranian threats, describing the current Middle East basing system as an outdated legacy.

Admiral Bradley Cooper, the current head of Centcom, is reportedly supportive of discussions regarding a westward shift of US troops from the Gulf. Iran's actions have already impacted US operations, with attacks targeting bases in Bahrain (home to the Fifth Fleet), Qatar (Centcom headquarters), and air bases in Kuwait and the UAE. The US has already redeployed forces westward during the conflict. Middle East Eye previously reported that the US gained access to Taif Air Base in Saudi Arabia following an attack on Prince Sultan Air Base.