Iran Strikes the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar

Doha, Qatar – 23 June 2025 – Iran launched a missile attack targeting the U.S. military’s Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in response to U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The operation, dubbed “Annunciation of Victory” (or “Operation Fatah’s Blessing” in Iranian reports), involved a barrage of short- and medium-range ballistic missiles fired around 20:00 local time

Iran strikes the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar: What Really happened?

• Missile barrage launched: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the strike on Al Udeid, emphasizing it was a calibrated response to recent U.S. bombing of three Iranian nuclear sites
• Transparent warning prior to attack: Tehran reportedly informed U.S. and Qatari authorities several hours before launch, prompting airspace closures over Qatar and Bahrain and allowing early warning for defensive measures
• Effective interception: Qatar’s Defence Ministry—citing its air defences—states that multiple incoming missiles were intercepted, with no casualties or base damage reported

Read Also: How the US Bombarded Iran Nuclear Sites: Full Breakdown of Operation Midnight Hammer

Reactions & responses

• Qatar: Denounced the attack as a serious breach of its sovereignty. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al‑Ansari highlighted the country’s “right to respond proportionally” under international law
• United States: Pentagon and CENTCOM confirmed zero U.S. casualties. President Trump called Iran’s strike “a very weak response” and expressed satisfaction that early warning prevented any harm
• International reaction: Gulf states including Saudi Arabia and the UAE condemned the missile strike as a violation of international law. The Arab League joined calls for restraint and diplomacy

Strategic implications

• Symbolic messaging: Iran took care to avoid civilian areas, emphasizing this was a response to U.S. pressure rather than an attack on Qatar, reaffirming Qatar as a “brotherly country”.
• Regional risks: The conflict escalates long-standing tensions, raising concerns over potential spillover into other Gulf states and the Strait of Hormuz.
• U.S. force posture: Recent satellite images suggest over 40 U.S. aircraft were removed from the base ahead of the attack for force protection, reinforcing fears of further Iranian strikes

What’s next

The missile strike on Al Udeid underscores the increasing risk of direct confrontation between Iran and U.S.-backed forces. While no casualties resulted, the attack served as a clear geopolitical signal. Ongoing diplomatic engagements and regional coordination will be critical in preventing further escalation.

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