U.S. Navy: No Imminent Return to Bahrain Base

A high-ranking U.S. Navy commander has stated that there are no immediate plans to return troops and their families to the U.S. Naval Support Activity Bahrain, which was severely damaged by Iranian attacks in February and March. Admiral Daryl Caudle, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, emphasized that a return is not likely soon, and military officials are reviewing options for transporting personal belongings left behind. The base serves as the headquarters of the U.S. Fifth Fleet and a major naval logistics hub in the Gulf. Around 1,300 dependents were evacuated from Bahrain beginning March 2, and many remain displaced. The Navy is working on plans to allow displaced personnel to retrieve their belongings.