*U.S. Troops at Risk if Trump Joins Israel-Iran War | NY Times* - Over 40,000 U.S. personnel are stationed in the Mideast; key bases in Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar may be targets. - Iran warns of “irreparable damage” if U.S. joins attacks; missiles could hit Gulf bases in 3–4 minutes, limiting response time. - 13,500 troops in Kuwait, 10,000 in Qatar’s Al Udeid base, and 9,000 in Bahrain are among the most exposed. - Iran’s proxies in Iraq and Syria pose added threats; Al Asad base already hit by Iran-backed drone strikes. - U.S. has bolstered defenses since 2023 Hamas attacks; outcome now hinges on Trump’s decision to escalate involvement. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/18/world/middleeast/us-troops-middle-east-iran.html