David Petraeus questions viability of U.S. Gulf military bases

Former CIA Director and retired General David Petraeus has stated that maintaining active U.S. military bases in the eastern Gulf states is no longer as viable as it once was. In an interview with Global Gambit, Petraeus criticized Washington’s lack of strategy, noting that while the U.S. possesses technological superiority, the Pentagon has failed to utilize it effectively.

Petraeus highlighted the changing nature of warfare, specifically the threat posed by inexpensive drones to expensive military and energy infrastructure. He argued that using highly costly missile interceptors to destroy drones valued at approximately $50,000 is an unsustainable economic strategy. He suggested the U.S. should learn from the conflict in Ukraine, where low-cost drones have successfully targeted significant economic and military assets, such as oil storage and refineries.

He further noted that military bases and critical infrastructure in the region are increasingly being used as leverage and tools for influence. Petraeus cited concerns regarding U.S. air defense capabilities, mentioning that the U.S. has already utilized nearly half of its missile interceptors. He identified several locations that have reportedly been targeted or affected by regional tensions, including facilities in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain.