A report by NBC News reveals that US military bases in the Gulf region sustained significant damage from Iranian strikes, far beyond what has been publicly acknowledged. The strikes, which began on February 28, targeted facilities in at least seven countries, damaging warehouses, command centers, aircraft hangars, and satellite communications systems, as well as runways and radar systems. Despite advanced US air defense systems, vulnerabilities were exposed, including an incident where an Iranian F-5 fighter jet successfully penetrated defenses. The US Defense Department has not provided a comprehensive assessment of the damage, leading to frustration among Republican lawmakers who have sought clarity on the situation, especially as the Pentagon requests record-high funding. Repair costs for the damaged bases and equipment are expected to be in the billions, reigniting discussions in Washington about the risks of US military bases near adversaries like Iran. The Pentagon's military operations have already incurred costs exceeding $11 billion in the first week of the conflict.