Doha: Qatar on Monday said it successfully intercepted Iranian missiles targeting the Al Udeid Air Base, describing the strikes as “a flagrant violation of sovereignty.” The attack marked a significant escalation in tensions following the recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
According to the Qatari Ministry of Defence, the country’s air defence systems managed to intercept the missiles, resulting in no casualties. “Thanks to God and the vigilance of the armed forces personnel and the precautionary measures taken, the incident resulted in no deaths or injuries. The Ministry reaffirmed that the airspace and territory of the State of Qatar are safe and that the Qatari Armed Forces are always fully prepared to deal with any threat. The Ministry of Defense also advises citizens and residents to follow official sources for directives and the latest developments,” the ministry said in a statement.
According to a report by The New York Times, Iran had reportedly given Qatar prior notice of the strike on the US military base to minimise casualties. The attack, described as symbolic, was reportedly aimed at avoiding further escalation.
Iran attacks US bases in Qatar
As part of its retaliation, Iran launched missiles at US military installations in both Qatar and Iraq. An Axios report, quoting an Israeli official, said Iran fired six missiles at US troops stationed in Qatar. While Qatar confirmed that all missiles were intercepted with no injuries, Iranian state-affiliated Mehr News claimed three of the missiles managed to strike the Al Udeid Air Base. Explosions were reportedly heard in parts of Doha, marking it as Iran’s most significant attack on a base in Qatar to date.
Earlier, The Wall Street Journal had reported that Iran was preparing to carry out strikes on US forces in the region. Meanwhile, a White House official told the press that the Biden administration is closely monitoring the situation. Defence Secretary Dan Caine and other top US officials are tracking the developments from the situation room.
