Doha, Qatar – Iran launched an attack on the Al Udeid U.S. Air Force Base in Qatar following U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend. However, Qatari air defenses successfully thwarted the missile attack, intercepting the Iranian missiles before they could cause damage.
A spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the missile strikes, calling them a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and airspace, as well as a breach of international law and the United Nations Charter. The spokesperson emphasized that Qatar reserves the right to respond in a manner proportional to the attacks.
No Casualties Reported at Al Udeid Air Base
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles were used in the attack. Fortunately, there have been no reports of U.S. casualties from the missile strikes. A Defense official stated:
“I can confirm that Al Udeid Air Base was attacked by short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles originating from Iran today. At this time, there are no reports of U.S. casualties. We are monitoring this situation closely and will provide more information as it becomes available.”
Iranian state TV also reported that operations against the U.S. base had begun, with sources stating that 10 missiles were launched at Al Udeid.
U.S. and International Reactions
The Trump administration is closely monitoring the situation, and a senior White House official said, “The White House and the Department of Defense are aware of, and closely monitoring, potential threats to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.” President Trump is expected to meet with his national security team to discuss the next steps.
Meanwhile, Israel continued airstrikes inside Iran on Monday, further escalating tensions in the region.
Qatar Closes Airspace and Issues Warning to U.S. Citizens
In preparation for the missile attack, Qatari officials had closed the country’s airspace, citing concerns for the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors.
The U.S. Embassy in Qatar also issued a shelter-in-place order for American citizens, advising them to stay indoors until further notice as a precautionary measure. The embassy explained that this advisory was made out of an abundance of caution.
Tensions Extend to Bahrain
Meanwhile, sirens sounded in Bahrain as the situation in the Gulf continued to escalate. The Bahraini Interior Ministry urged residents to remain calm, seek shelter in the nearest safe location, and use main roads only when necessary.
Bahrain hosts several U.S. Navy assets, including the headquarters for the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.
In addition, several U.S. naval ships, including anti-mine vessels and logistical support ships, are stationed in Bahrain, which plays a key role in U.S. military operations in the Middle East.