Iran launched a missile attack on United States military installations in Qatar and Iraq on Monday evening, in what its state-run media described as a forceful retaliation against recent American airstrikes on her nuclear facilities.
According to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), “The operation of Iranian missiles against American bases located in Qatar and in Iraq has begun, and is called ‘Blessing of Victory’.”
AFP reporters in Doha, Qatar’s capital, reported hearing loud explosions. Doha is home to the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US military installation in the Middle East.
Responding to the developments, Qatari authorities confirmed that their defense systems intercepted the incoming missiles aimed at the US base.
“The Ministry of Defense announced that Qatari air defenses successfully intercepted a missile attack targeting Al Udeid Air Base,” a government statement read, noting further that “the incident did not result in any deaths or injuries”.
This missile strike marks a significant escalation in tensions between Iran and the United States, following recent confrontations linked to alleged sabotage at nuclear facilities within Iran.
The situation remains fluid, with international observers watching closely for potential retaliatory responses from the US or its allies in the region.
