Iran launched a missile attack on the U.S. military’s Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Monday, escalating tensions in the Middle East following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend. The strike, which Iran described as a “mighty and successful response” to “America’s aggression,” prompted temporary airspace closures in Qatar and neighboring Bahrain, home to the U.S. 5th Fleet headquarters.
Qatar’s defense forces reported intercepting all incoming missiles, with no casualties or significant damage at Al Udeid. The country condemned the attack but confirmed its airspace is now secure. Iranian state television broadcast the announcement of the strike, accompanied by martial music and a caption heralding the operation’s success. Tehran stated the attack was calibrated to match the number of U.S. bombs dropped on its nuclear sites, suggesting an intent to limit further escalation. Iran also noted it targeted Al Udeid because it lies outside populated areas.
The attack has heightened fears of a broader conflict in the volatile region, with regional allies and international observers closely monitoring developments.