The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran has officially confirmed launching a missile strike on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, in what Tehran described as a retaliatory action for recent American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The missile barrage, which occurred overnight, marks one of the most direct escalations between Iran and the United States in the region in recent years.
According to Iranian state media and military sources, at least ten missiles were fired at Al Udeid, a key U.S. military installation hosting approximately 10,000 American personnel. One additional missile was reportedly launched toward a U.S. facility in Iraq. The IRGC described the operation, dubbed “Annunciation of Victory,” as a “devastating and powerful” response to what it called violations of Iranian sovereignty.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that its air defense systems successfully intercepted the incoming missiles. The government issued a strong condemnation of the attack, calling it a “flagrant breach” of national sovereignty and warned that such actions could have “serious regional consequences.” Qatar also reserved the right to respond in accordance with international law.
Local media and eyewitnesses in Doha reported multiple loud explosions early Monday morning as interception systems were activated over the city. The Qatari government temporarily closed its airspace, and the U.S. Embassy in Doha advised American citizens to shelter in place.
In Washington, a senior administration official told Axios that the White House and the Pentagon are closely monitoring the situation. Defense analysts described the Iranian strike as one of the most significant direct threats to American forces in the Gulf region in recent years.
The attack follows a series of U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear infrastructure at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan over the weekend. Those strikes, conducted using bunker-busting munitions, were described by American officials as a response to Tehran’s recent escalations in uranium enrichment and regional proxy activity.
U.S. intelligence agencies have warned that Iran may not stop with a single attack and that further actions against American forces in the Middle East could follow. The Biden administration has reiterated its commitment to protecting U.S. personnel and interests but has also signaled willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Al Udeid Air Base, located southwest of Doha, serves as the forward headquarters for U.S. Central Command and plays a critical role in American operations across the Middle East. While no American casualties have been reported, the attack has significantly heightened tensions and renewed concerns over the vulnerability of U.S. assets in the region.
The U.S. State Department and the Department of Defense are expected to issue further statements as intelligence assessments are completed. Allies across NATO and the Gulf Cooperation Council have also been briefed on the developments.
