Iran Launches Missile Strikes on U.S. Bases in Qatar and Iraq After Nuclear Facility Attacks
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply following Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes on U.S. military bases in both Qatar and Iraq. The strikes came in response to the recent bombing of Iran’s key nuclear facilities on Saturday, according to Iranian state media.
One of the targeted locations was the U.S.-operated Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar—the largest American military installation in the region. The Qatari government confirmed the strike, condemning it as a “flagrant violation” of its sovereignty. Authorities in Doha announced that the country has temporarily closed its airspace in response to the escalating conflict. In addition, Qatar warned that it reserves the right to take direct action in response to the attack.
The missile strikes have caused widespread alarm across the Gulf. U.S. and U.K. embassies in Qatar and Iraq have issued urgent advisories, urging their citizens to shelter in place until further notice. Flights in and out of Qatar have been suspended, and security has been significantly increased at Western diplomatic compounds in the region.
Meanwhile, in Washington, former President Donald Trump has convened an emergency meeting with the National Security Council to assess the rapidly developing situation. While there has been no official statement yet from the White House, Pentagon sources have confirmed that multiple missiles struck near U.S. assets, though the extent of the damage and any potential casualties remain unclear.
The missile attacks mark a dramatic turn in the already tense standoff between Iran and Western powers. Iran’s response underscores its readiness to escalate militarily in defense of its nuclear program, which has long been a point of contention with the United States and its allies. Experts warn that this latest development risks triggering a broader regional conflict if diplomacy fails to bring both sides back from the brink.
With tensions at a boiling point, the international community is closely watching how Washington, London, and regional actors will respond in the coming hours. The situation remains volatile, and further escalation cannot be ruled out.
