At least six Iranian ballistic missiles were launched at U.S. military positions across the Gulf region late Sunday, with Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar—the largest American military installation in the Middle East—believed to be the primary target.
The base, situated near Qatar’s capital Doha, was briefly on high alert. Online footage shows plumes of smoke rising near its perimeter. No official casualty figures have been released, though Qatar’s Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems successfully intercepted the incoming missiles. No structural damage has been reported, and officials emphasized that Qatari airspace remains safe.
However, a U.S. official told Reuters on Monday that no Iranian missiles hit the Al-Udeid airbase. The initial assessment follows what was described as an attempted attack using short- and medium-range missiles.
The Iranian Armed Forces claimed responsibility, stating they had conducted a “destructive and powerful missile attack” on Al-Udeid in retaliation for U.S. actions. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council added that the targeted U.S. facility is located far from civilian areas and reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to maintaining friendly ties with Qatar.
This escalation follows several days of heightened tensions after U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Notably, the U.S. withdrew all aircraft from Al-Udeid on June 19, which now appears to have been a strategic precaution.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the Iranian strikes, calling them a “blatant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty” and stated that the nation reserves the right to respond.
The United Arab Emirates also issued a sharp condemnation, calling the attack a clear violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law. In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs voiced unwavering support for Qatar, stressing the need to de-escalate militarily and warning that continued hostilities risk destabilizing the entire region. The ministry urged all parties to seek diplomatic solutions and uphold the principle of good neighborliness, stating that constructive dialogue is the only viable path to peace and stability.
The United Nations echoed these concerns, warning that the incident risks further destabilizing the region.
The Pentagon is expected to release an official response shortly.
Source: ANewz
