Future of U.S. bases in Persian Gulf uncertain after Iranian attacks

NPR | By Aya Batrawy

Published September 14, 2026 at 4:44 AM EDT

Iran's attacks forced the U.S. to pull back many troops stationed in the Gulf, leaving the future of these bases in question.

Aya Batrawy

Aya Batraway is an NPR International Correspondent based in Dubai.

WEKU depends on support from those who view and listen to our content. There's no paywall here. Please support WEKU with your donation.

Contribute now

Related Content

NPR News

New Carlo Rovelli book challenges science's understanding of reality and the universe

Adam Frank

In his latest book, the world-renowned physicist draws on science and philosophy to explore the notion that the university and reality are fully knowable.
NPR News

ChatGPT has a feature to help those in crisis. But where can you find it?

Rhitu Chatterjee

Earlier this year, OpenAI launched a feature on ChatGPT meant to help people at risk of suicide connect with someone they trust for support. But its setup may prove challenging to someone in crisis.
NPR News

Morning news brief

A Martínez, Leila Fadel

Industry leaders call for AI development to slow down to ensure safety, Trump to campaign for GOP candidates ahead of midterms, Iranian officials say a meeting with the Gulf States has been postponed.
New book highlights the people and institutions that have become Trump's enablers

Steve Inskeep

NPR's Steve Inskeep speaks with author Jacob Weisberg about his new book, "Profiles in Cowardice: A Study of Collaboration in the Trump Era."
Forecast says families will spend more to heat their homes this winter

Scott Horsley, Leila Fadel

It's probably going to cost more to heat your home this winter. Forecasters say heating bills are likely to climb faster than overall inflation, despite what's expected to be a relatively mild winter.