Indian in Bahrain Recalls Sirens and 6–7 Blasts After Iran Targets US Base

An Indian national living in Bahrain has described scenes of panic and uncertainty after Iran allegedly targeted US military assets in the Gulf kingdom following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian territory.

In a video interaction, the Indian professional, originally from Haryana and residing in Bahrain for three years, said the situation escalated rapidly after warning sirens sounded late Saturday morning.

“We Heard 6–7 Blasts”

According to the resident, around 11:30 am local time, authorities issued alerts instructing residents to take shelter immediately. Within minutes, loud explosions were heard.

“First the siren went off. Then within 10–15 minutes, there was a loud blast. After that, we heard six or seven explosions,” he said.

He added that elevators in his residential building stopped functioning shortly after the sirens, and residents were instructed to evacuate using staircases.

In the background of shared visuals, plumes of smoke could be seen rising above parts of the city.

Iran Targets US Base in Bahrain

Reports indicate that Iran targeted the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet located at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, a major American military installation in the region.

The resident said that while multiple explosions were heard, several missiles appeared to have been intercepted by US defence systems.

“Most of them were intercepted,” he said, describing the atmosphere as tense but controlled after the initial shock.

Airspace Closures and Public Panic

Following the reported strikes, Bahrain temporarily shut its airspace, aligning with other Gulf countries amid the escalating regional conflict.

The Indian resident said that daily life came to a halt despite the ongoing month of Ramadan.

“Usually, evenings during Ramadan are lively. Today, shops shut early. Taxi services stopped gradually,” he said.

He added that thousands of residents headed toward the airport in hopes of securing outbound flights. However, with airspace closures in place, no immediate travel options were available.

Appeal for Evacuation

Bahrain is home to approximately 3.5 lakh Indian nationals, making Indians the largest expatriate community in the country.

The resident appealed to the Indian government for assistance, particularly for those unfamiliar with designated shelters.

“Many of us do not know where the shelters are. If the situation worsens, we request evacuation support,” he said.

Indian authorities have previously issued advisories urging citizens in conflict zones to exercise caution and remain in contact with embassies.

As tensions between Iran, the US and Israel escalate across the Middle East, expatriate communities across the Gulf remain on high alert.