Iran launched missile attacks on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Monday, a direct response to American airstrikes on its nuclear facilities.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry condemned the assault as a “blatant violation” of its sovereignty and international law. No casualties were reported, as Qatar’s defenses successfully intercepted the incoming missiles.
The attack targeted Al Udeid, home to the Combined Air Operations Center and the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, a critical hub for U.S. air operations. Iran’s choice of a military base outside populated areas suggests an intent to limit civilian harm while delivering a calculated retaliation.
Iran’s state television broadcast the assault with martial music, labeling it a “mighty and successful response” to US aggression. The missile barrage matched the number of bombs dropped on Iran’s nuclear sites, hinting at a desire to de-escalate after a proportional counterstrike.
Simultaneously, the Ain al-Assad base in Iraq, housing US troops, was also hit, though Iran did not claim responsibility, with damage and injuries still unconfirmed.
Bahrain, hosting the U.S. 5th Fleet, temporarily closed its airspace following the strikes, mirroring Qatar’s earlier move. Qatar has since declared its airspace safe, resuming normal operations.
The U.S. bombing of three Iranian nuclear sites on Sunday prompted this swift retaliation. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, posting on X, stated, “We neither initiated the war nor seek it, but we will not leave invasion unanswered.”
The Middle East remains on edge, with the US-Iran conflict threatening broader regional stability. Analysts warn that continued tit-for-tat strikes could spiral into a larger confrontation, impacting global markets and security.
