Bahrain's Crown Plaza hit in attack, US asks citizens to avoid hotels

Several videos circulating on social media showed smoke rising from the building. While some posts claimed the hotel was struck by drones, it remains unclear whether the damage was caused by a direct hit or by debris from intercepted projectiles.

In a statement posted on X, the Ministry said: “The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Manama was targeted, resulting in material damage but no loss of life.”

According to multiple media reports, Iran also targeted parts of the Gulf region — including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and areas in Qatar — in fresh attacks launched on Sunday.

Authorities have urged citizens and residents to remain calm and move to the nearest safe location as a precaution.

Meanwhile, Iran appointed Ayatollah Alireza Arafi to its interim leadership council, hours after officially announcing the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed in a strike carried out by Israel and the United States on Saturday inside Iranian territory.

In a separate post on X, Expediency Council spokesman Mohsen Dehnavi said: “The Expediency Discernment Council has elected Ayatollah Alireza Arafi as a member of the interim leadership council.”

The US Embassy in Manama also confirmed the incident, stating on X: “The U.S. Embassy in Bahrain is tracking confirmed reports that the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Manama was struck on March 1, 2026, resulting in injuries. We advise U.S. citizens in Bahrain that hotels may be targets for future attacks and encourage them to avoid hotels in Manama.”