Iran launched 18 ballistic missiles late Sunday targeting the U.S. military’s Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest American installation in the Middle East.
Missile attack details
The attack came in two waves: the first volley included seven missiles, all intercepted by Qatar’s air defenses. The second volley consisted of 11 missiles, with only one hitting the base. Qatar’s Interior Ministry said debris landing in residential areas was cleared safely.
U.S. President Donald Trump said 14 missiles were fired in total, 13 intercepted, and one allowed to fall harmlessly because it posed no threat. This count differs from Qatar’s military, which reported 18 missiles launched.
The Pentagon confirmed the U.S. air defenses at Al-Udeid successfully responded to the threat. The base was briefly on high alert, with videos showing smoke near its perimeter.
Iran claims retaliation
Iranian Armed Forces claimed responsibility, describing the strike as a “destructive and powerful” response to recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said the base was targeted away from civilian areas and reiterated Tehran’s commitment to maintaining good relations with Qatar.
Regional and international reactions
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strike as a “blatant violation” of its sovereignty and expressed surprise at the attack. Several Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Palestine, and Morocco, strongly condemned the missile attack, calling it a breach of international law and a threat to regional stability.
The United Nations also condemned the strike, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warning it risks further destabilization and urging restraint.
Conflicting accounts and calls for peace
President Trump confirmed no Americans were harmed and thanked Iran for what he said was early notification of the strike, which helped prevent casualties. However, Qatar and regional countries said they were surprised by the attack, indicating differing accounts on any prior warnings.
Trump called for de-escalation and urged Iran and Israel to pursue “peace and harmony.” The U.S. Embassy in Qatar lifted its shelter-in-place order and will reopen Tuesday.
Flights and daily life continue
Despite the tensions, Emirates Airlines said flights would continue on adjusted routes away from conflict zones. Qatar reported no disruptions to civil aviation or infrastructure beyond the brief alert at the air base.
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