Iran has launched a direct missile attack on US forces stationed at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in a dangerous new escalation that followed the American airstrikes against three Iranian nuclear facilities.
Missiles were fired at the base as part of what Iran's state television is calling “Operation Herald of Victory".
Qatari air defense systems intercepted the Iranian missile attack, Al Jazeera reported, citing the Qatari defense ministry.
Doha condemned the Iranian airstrikes against US forces in Al Udeid, saying it reserves the right to respond directly and in accordance with international law.
It also confirmed that the attack resulted in no fatalities.
The US president is at the White House Situation Room, discussing a possible response to the Iranian attack, according to CNBC.
According to the New York Times and Reuters, Iran had coordinated the attack with Qatari officials and the United States in advance and gave early notice to help minimize casualties.
In a statement, Iran's Supreme National Security Council gave Doha an assurance that the targeted US base was located far from residential areas and posed no danger to “the brotherly and friendly country of Qatar and its people.”
Tehran emphasized that it remains committed to maintaining its “warm ties with Qatar.”
The situation remains fluid as US officials assess the damage and prepare for possible further retaliation. Al Udeid is the largest US military base in the Middle East, hosting thousands of American personnel and serving as a strategic hub for regional operations.
