Missile Strikes Target US Military Installation in Qatar
In a bold escalation of regional conflict, Iran launched multiple missile strikes targeting US military bases in Qatar late Monday night, with the Al Udeid Air Base—America's largest military facility in the Middle East—bearing the brunt of the attack. The missile assault was reportedly in direct retaliation against recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
Following the strikes, Qatar promptly closed its airspace as a precautionary measure. Residents in Doha and Lusail heard loud explosions and witnessed projectiles slicing through the night sky, with eyewitnesses confirming the severity of the assault.
Iran Declares Retaliation "Devastating and Powerful"
Iran’s state media aired footage of the missile strike, accompanied by stirring martial music and captions describing the attack as a "mighty and successful response" to what Tehran termed American aggression. Official statements from Iran's military underscored the strike's strength, labeling it "devastating and powerful."
The country’s top security council emphasized that its missile launch matched the scale of US bombing on Iranian nuclear facilities and assured that the targeted base is situated away from populated areas of Qatar. Tehran stressed that the strikes do not threaten its "friendly and brotherly" neighbor.
Broader Missile Campaign and Regional Alert
The missile operation, dubbed "Annunciation of Victory," reportedly extended to US bases in Iraq, illustrating Iran's wider strategy of retaliation. Meanwhile, Bahrain—home to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet—issued a calm advisory urging citizens to seek safe locations amid heightened alert.
The US Embassy in Doha and other Western diplomatic missions advised residents to remain indoors until further notice, reflecting increased caution in the face of potential escalation.
Qatar's Response and Calls for Stability
Qatar’s foreign ministry formally acknowledged the missile attack, asserting the nation's right to respond under international law if necessary. However, officials reassured the public that the security environment remains stable. Doha stated it is collaborating closely with regional and global partners to ease tensions and prioritize de-escalation.
Al Udeid Air Base, positioned southwest of Doha, acts as a crucial command hub and houses thousands of US service members supporting Middle Eastern operations.
Israeli Military Actions in Iran Continue
In a related development, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that around 15 fighter jets conducted airstrikes targeting missile and drone storage facilities across western Iran, guided by intelligence units. The raids focused on underground infrastructure and weapons depots associated with Iran’s armed forces.
US Response Remains Pending
As of now, there has been no official statement from the US Department of Defense or Central Command regarding the Iranian missile strikes, including details on casualties or material damage.
