Iran has launched missiles at the U.S.-run Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in what it says is retaliation for American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend.
“In response to the US aggressive and insolent action against Iran’s nuclear sites and facilities, a few hours ago, the powerful armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran struck the U.S. air base in Al-Udeid, Qatar,” the Iranian National Security Council said in a statement, adding that the number of missiles used “was the same as the number of bombs that the US had used in attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities.”
“This action does not pose any threat to our friendly and brotherly country, Qatar,” it added.
Qatari authorities confirmed the attack, describing it as a “flagrant violation” of its sovereignty. Officials said all incoming missiles were intercepted, and no casualties have been reported.
“The Ministry of Interior confirms… that the security situation in the country is stable, and there is no cause for concern,” the government said in a statement.
In response, Qatar has temporarily closed its airspace and advised all U.S. and UK citizens in the country to shelter in place. The government stated it reserves the right to respond directly to the attack. The countries of Bahrain and Kuwait also chose to close their airspace.
The UAE’s and Saudi governments both denounced the attacks.
Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry said it
condemns and denounces in the strongest terms the aggression launched by Iran against the sisterly State of Qatar… This is unacceptable and unjustifiable under any circumstances. The Kingdom affirms its solidarity and full support for… Qatar and offers all its capabilities to support the sisterly State of Qatar in any measures it takes.
In Washington, former President Donald Trump and senior defense officials are convening in the White House Situation Room. The meeting comes two days after the U.S. carried out strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, escalating regional tensions.
Speaking to broadcaster France 2, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said: “This is a dangerous escalation in which Iran bears a heavy responsibility. It is a cycle of violence that puts the region at risk of a widespread conflagration, which would have very serious repercussions even here at home.” French president Emmanuel Macron urged restraint in a post on X, saying, “This spiral of chaos must end.”
