Iran Launches Missile Attack on US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar
Late in the evening, explosions echoed across Doha, Qatar’s capital, following an Iranian missile strike targeting the US-operated Al Udeid air base. The attack came shortly after a Western diplomat disclosed a credible threat from Iran against the base, setting off alarm across the region and prompting immediate responses from US officials.
President Trump Monitors Crisis from White House Situation Room
US President Donald Trump was closely following developments from the White House Situation Room, overseeing the situation as tensions escalated. The missile assault is widely perceived as Iran's direct retaliation for the US airstrikes conducted earlier this week on key Iranian nuclear facilities.
Operation Besharat Fatah: Iran’s Retaliatory Strike
The Iranian Armed Forces publicly claimed responsibility for the missile attack, naming it "Operation Besharat Fatah." Their statement emphasized the strike as a powerful response to what they described as an “aggressive and shameless” US offensive on Iran’s nuclear sites. The Iranian Supreme National Security Council’s Secretariat highlighted that the number of missiles launched matched the number of bombs deployed by the US during their operation.
Qatar Condemns Attack and Reports No Casualties
Qatari authorities swiftly condemned the strike, labeling it a clear violation of their sovereignty and international law. Fortunately, Qatar confirmed that there were no casualties from the attack. Nonetheless, the nation took precautionary measures by temporarily closing its airspace, causing significant flight diversions at one of the world's busiest airports.
Meanwhile, the US embassy in Qatar advised American citizens to remain indoors "until further notice," underscoring the gravity of the situation on the ground.
US-Iran Tensions Reach Unprecedented Heights
This attack marks an intense escalation following the US's offensive, dubbed "Operation Midnight Hammer," which targeted three pivotal Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan earlier in the week. It represents the first direct US military strike against Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
President Trump’s Stance and Future Threats
In a national address, President Trump affirmed the complete destruction of Iran's critical nuclear facilities, directing stern warnings for peace. "Iran, the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace. If they do not, future attacks will be far greater and a lot easier," Trump stated. He also indicated that should tensions persist, the US is prepared to swiftly target additional sites with precision strikes.
What Lies Ahead?
The situation remains highly fluid as diplomatic and military circles worldwide monitor the fallout. Qatar's declaration of reserving the right to respond sets the stage for potential further developments. International eyes will be fixed on ongoing dialogues as well as any new military movements amid this escalating conflict.
