Doha, Qatar – In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Iran launched a missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Monday, targeting U.S. forces in retaliation for American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the strike, stating it was a “proportionate response” to the U.S. bombing of its nuclear sites.
Tehran emphasised that the number of missiles fired matched the number of bombs dropped by the U.S., suggesting an intent to avoid further escalation.
Flares lit up the sky over Doha, and explosions were heard as Qatar’s air defence systems scrambled to intercept the incoming projectiles.
Qatari authorities confirmed that their air defences successfully intercepted the missiles, preventing any damage or casualties at the strategic base, which houses thousands of American troops.
“Qatar’s air defence systems acted swiftly and decisively to neutralise the threat,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari. “No injuries or structural damage have been reported.”
The attack came shortly after Qatar closed its airspace as a precaution amid rising threats from Iran.
The U.S. military acknowledged the strike but confirmed no American or coalition personnel were harmed. Pentagon officials have not announced any further retaliatory measures, though tensions remain high.
Analysts suggest Iran’s decision to strike a military base outside populated areas—rather than civilian targets—may indicate an attempt to balance retaliation with restraint.
However, the attack marks a dangerous new phase in the confrontation between Washington and Tehran, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.
As both sides weigh their next moves, global leaders are urging de-escalation, with the UN Security Council expected to convene an emergency session to address the crisis.
—Reporting by Alsajeera, AP and BBC
