In breaking news, Iran launched a limited missile strike on a US military base in Qatar on Monday in response to US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The attack marked a serious escalation in the region, but both Iran and the US appear to be trying to avoid further conflict. No casualties were reported in the attack, and several countries temporarily closed their airspace as a precaution.
Iran Responds to US Bombing with Missile Strike
Iran’s missile strike targeted Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, where US forces are stationed. The Iranian government said the strike was equivalent to the number of bombs dropped by the US during its weekend strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. It also said the location chosen was far from civilian areas to prevent unnecessary damage. President Donald Trump called Iran’s strike a “very weak response” and confirmed that no US personnel were harmed. He also said the US had been warned about the attack in advance. In a message on Truth Social, Trump noted that Iran had “got it all out of its system” and expressed hope for “peace and harmony” in the region.
Qatar, Bahrain, and Other Gulf Countries Take Action
Qatar reacted strongly to the missile attack, calling it a clear violation of its airspace and national sovereignty. However, it successfully intercepted the incoming missiles thanks to its defense system. The Qatari government also temporarily closed its airspace on Monday to protect residents and visitors. The US embassy in Qatar advised American citizens to stay indoors. Bahrain, meanwhile, also took emergency precautions. Sirens were heard in Manama and residents were advised to move to safer places. Bahraini civil aviation authorities also suspended air traffic, citing the need to protect the public amid the escalating tensions.
Other countries followed suit:
- Kuwait Airways suspended outbound flights.
- EgyptAir canceled all flights to and from cities in the Arabian Gulf.
- Kuwait’s civil aviation authority temporarily closed its airspace as a precautionary measure.
- The United Arab Emirates government said it was monitoring the situation closely and was ready to take action if necessary.
Regional Airspaces Reopen
By early Tuesday, most countries had reopened their airspace, suggesting the situation had stabilized for the time being. Governments in the Gulf region said they remained on high alert and were ready to respond if the situation worsened.
US and Iran Signal De-escalation
Despite the missile strike, both the United States and Iran appear to be keen to avoid further conflict. Iran’s decision to warn the United States before the strike and its focus on military rather than civilian targets suggest that the attack was more symbolic than offensive.
Trump urged all parties, including Israel, to take steps toward peace. He stressed that the United States is committed to protecting its interests but does not want to escalate the situation.
Missile Strike Triggers Gulf Airspace Closures
- Breaking News: Iran fires missiles at US base in Qatar, sparking international concern.
- No injuries reported; Qatar intercepts missiles.
- Airspace closed in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt and others.
- Air travel disrupted across the Gulf region.
- Governments stress public safety and prepare for emergency response.
- Signs of de-escalation from both US and Iran
The incident is yet another reminder of how fragile peace in the Middle East can be. While this period of tension appears to be cooling, the international community will be watching closely in the coming days.
