How Safe is Kuwait for U.S. Military?
Kuwait has been a significant ally of the United States for decades, hosting the largest U.S. military presence in the Middle East. With over 13,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in Kuwait, it’s essential to assess the safety and security of the country for U.S. military personnel.
General Safety
Kuwait is generally a safe country for U.S. military personnel, with low crime rates compared to other countries in the region. According to the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior, the crime rate in Kuwait has decreased by 24% over the past few years. This is due in part to the country’s strict laws and effective law enforcement.
Violent Crime
Violent crime is rare in Kuwait, and most crimes committed against U.S. military personnel are non-violent in nature, such as petty theft or property damage. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, there were only 12 reported cases of violent crime against U.S. military personnel in Kuwait in 2020.
Terrorism
Kuwait has been a target of terrorist attacks in the past, including a suicide bombing in 2003 that killed several people. However, the country has taken significant measures to prevent and respond to terrorist threats. Kuwait has a strong counter-terrorism strategy in place, which includes intelligence sharing with international partners and rigorous security measures at public venues and military bases.
Security Measures
U.S. military personnel stationed in Kuwait are subject to strict security protocols, including:
- Secure military bases: U.S. military bases in Kuwait are heavily fortified and protected by multiple layers of security.
- Checkpoints and gates: All military bases and public areas have designated checkpoints and gates, which are staffed by Kuwaiti and U.S. security personnel.
- Intelligence gathering: U.S. and Kuwaiti intelligence agencies work together to gather and share information about potential threats.
- Regular drills and exercises: The U.S. military conducts regular drills and exercises with Kuwaiti forces to respond to potential threats.
Health and Medical Care
Kuwait has a well-regarded healthcare system, with several high-quality hospitals and medical centers. The Kuwaiti Ministry of Health has a bilateral agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense to provide medical care to U.S. military personnel stationed in Kuwait. In the event of a medical emergency, U.S. military personnel can receive treatment at the Kuwait Naval Hospital, which is staffed by U.S. military personnel and Kuwaiti medical professionals.
Family and Social Life
Kuwait is a relatively conservative country, and U.S. military personnel and their families are expected to respect local customs and traditions. The U.S. Department of Defense has a variety of programs and services to support the well-being and quality of life of U.S. military personnel and their families stationed in Kuwait, including:
- Family support centers: These centers provide a range of services, including counseling, childcare, and recreational activities.
- Housing: The U.S. military provides a range of housing options for personnel, including on-base housing and off-base apartments.
- Recreational activities: Kuwait has a range of recreational activities, including beaches, shopping centers, and cultural attractions.
Table: Comparison of Kuwait and the United States in Terms of Safety
| Category | Kuwait | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Crime rate | Low (24% decrease over past few years) | Medium to high |
| Terrorism | Low risk, but some threats | High risk, with frequent attacks |
| Security measures | Strong, with multiple layers of security | Strong, but with some vulnerabilities |
| Healthcare | Well-regarded, with bilateral agreement with U.S. DoD | High-quality, but with some challenges |
| Family and social life | Conservative, with some cultural differences | Diverse, with many cultural options |
Conclusion
Kuwait is generally a safe country for U.S. military personnel, with low crime rates and a strong counter-terrorism strategy in place. While there are some cultural differences and security concerns, the U.S. military has a range of programs and services in place to support the well-being and quality of life of personnel and their families. By following local customs and traditions, and being aware of potential security risks, U.S. military personnel can have a safe and successful deployment in Kuwait.
