Patriot Missile Blamed for Bahrain Blast

0:00On March 22nd, an analysis by academic researchers points to a U.S. operated Patriot missile as the likely cause of a pre-dawn explosion in Bahrain on… March 9th The blast tore through a residential neighborhood on Citro-Island, injuring 32 civilians including children. Both Bahrain and Washington initially blamed an Iranian drone attack, but no evidence of the drone has been shared. Bahrain later confirmed a Patriot interceptor was fired that night, claiming it successfully down the drone mid-air and saved lives. The incident happened just 10 days into the U.S.-led war in Iran, which began with strikes on February 28th. Both countries operate Patriot batteries in the Gulf Kingdom, home to the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet. The explosion caused widespread damage to homes, with rubble and dust covering streets in the Mahaza area. Residents were left screaming and injured amid the chaos. It highlights the dangers of using high-powered Patriots against cheap drones, as the blasts hits civilians even while a nearby ore refinery suffered A.

1:03Separate strike Researchers trace the missile's low-altitude path from a U.S. battery in RIFA using videos and satellite images. They suggested detonated mid-flight, possibly from a malfunction or failed intercept, though Bahrain denies any mishap. Audio experts found no signs of a drone nearby. Things linger about what really happened, as officials stick to their drone story and witnesses stay silent out of fear. This case underscores the tricky realities of air defenses in the escalating conflict. Stay informed with Global News Today, AI-powered updates.