June 23, 2025 | Doha, Qatar — In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Iran has launched a series of ballistic missiles targeting a U.S. military base in Qatar, officials confirmed late Monday night. The attack is believed to be a direct retaliation for earlier U.S. strikes on Iranian-linked positions in Iraq and Syria.
According to early reports, multiple missiles were fired from Iranian territory and appeared to strike near the perimeter of Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts thousands of U.S. and coalition forces. Explosions were reported in the vicinity, and smoke was seen rising from parts of the installation. Casualty numbers have not yet been confirmed, though Pentagon sources have indicated there are “injuries and possible fatalities.”
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed responsibility in a statement broadcast by state media, calling the missile barrage a “measured and legitimate response” to what it labeled “American aggression” in the region. The statement warned that “any further provocation” would be met with “even harsher consequences.”
U.S. Central Command has acknowledged the attack and confirmed that defensive systems were activated. “We are assessing the extent of the damage and coordinating with Qatari authorities. The safety of our personnel is our top priority,” a CENTCOM spokesperson said.
Qatar’s Ministry of Defense has condemned the missile strike, calling it a violation of its sovereignty, while urging both sides to de-escalate and avoid dragging the region into a broader conflict.
Global markets reacted immediately, with oil prices spiking nearly 7% amid fears of a wider war in the Gulf. Major airlines have begun rerouting flights away from the region, and several embassies have issued emergency warnings to their citizens.
President Biden is expected to address the nation shortly, and an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council has been scheduled for early Tuesday.
This is a developing story. More details will be shared as information becomes available.
