The Middle East has plunged into a state of war as the United States and Israel launched a massive, coordinated airstrike against Iran this morning, triggering immediate retaliatory missile strikes across the region.

The United States maintains a network of military bases across the Middle East, raising concerns that recent strikes against Iran could prompt retaliatory attacks on American forces in the region.

Here is a look at some of the key US deployments under Central Command (CENTCOM):

Bahrain

The Gulf kingdom hosts Naval Support Activity Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet and the headquarters of US Naval Forces Central Command. Its deep-water port can accommodate aircraft carriers and other large vessels, and several US ships, including anti-mine and logistical support ships, are based there. The US has operated in Bahrain since 1948, initially under Britain’s Royal Navy.

Iraq

US troops remain in Iraq’s autonomous Kurdish region as part of the international coalition against the Islamic State, though their mission is set to end by September under a Washington-Baghdad agreement. American forces have already withdrawn from facilities in federal Iraq. In previous conflicts, US forces in Iraq and Syria were targeted by pro-Iran militias following the outbreak of the Gaza war, with the US responding with strikes on Tehran-linked targets.

Kuwait

The US has several bases in Kuwait, including Camp Arifjan, the forward headquarters for CENTCOM’s Army component, and Ali al-Salem Air Base, which hosts the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing. Kuwait also serves as a hub for US drones, including MQ-9 Reapers, and stores military equipment and supplies.

Qatar

Al Udeid Air Base is a central hub for CENTCOM, hosting command components, air forces, special operations forces, and the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing. The base operates combat aircraft and supports intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, aerial refuelling, and aeromedical evacuation. Iran targeted Al Udeid with missiles last June after US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

Syria

US forces have been stationed in Syria as part of efforts against the Islamic State, though a withdrawal is underway. Sources indicate the exit could be completed within a month.

United Arab Emirates

Al Dhafra Air Base hosts the US 380th Air Expeditionary Wing, including 10 squadrons of combat aircraft and MQ-9 Reaper drones. The base also serves as a centre for advanced air warfare training and rotates combat aircraft through the region.

With these widespread deployments, analysts warn that any escalation with Iran could put tens of thousands of US troops at risk of retaliatory attacks.