Iran launches retaliatory attacks, fires missiles at US military bases in Qatar and Iraq
New Delhi: In a major escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran on Monday launched missile strikes targeting US military bases in Qatar and Iraq. Explosions were reportedly heard in Qatar’s capital, Doha, following the attack.
According to local media, the missile operation — codenamed ‘Annunciation of Victory’ — was carried out by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as retaliation for US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The already volatile regional situation had intensified in recent days due to repeated military confrontations between Iranian and Israeli forces.
Iran’s IRGC officially confirmed that it had targeted the US-operated Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. The base, located southwest of Doha, serves as the forward headquarters for US Central Command (CENTCOM), which directs American military operations across a vast region stretching from Egypt to Kazakhstan.
Established in 1996 under a defence cooperation agreement, Al Udeid is the largest US military installation in the Middle East and hosts approximately 10,000 troops.
Reacting strongly to the incident, Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Majed al-Ansari, condemned the IRGC’s missile strike as a “violation of Qatar’s sovereignty, airspace, and the UN Charter”. He further stated that Qatari air defence systems had successfully intercepted the Iranian missiles.
“We, in the State of Qatar, reserve our right to respond directly … to this blatant aggression in accordance with international law,” the statement added.
In the wake of the attack, Qatar temporarily closed its airspace as a precautionary measure “to ensure the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors”. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and follow official guidance.
Indian Embassy issues advisoryAmid rising tensions, the Indian Embassy in Doha issued an advisory to Indian nationals in the country. “In view of the ongoing situation, the Indian community in Qatar is urged to be cautious and remain indoors. Please remain calm and follow local news, instructions, and guidance provided by Qatari authorities,” the Embassy stated in a social media post, adding that updates would continue through official channels.