Missiles Fired From Iran Toward US Bases in Qatar and Iraq/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Multiple missiles were launched by Iran toward U.S. military installations in Qatar and Iraq on Monday, marking a significant escalation in response to U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Explosions were reported over Doha after Qatar closed its airspace, and U.S. and U.K. embassies advised citizens to shelter in place. U.S. defense officials, including Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Dan Caine, convened in the Situation Room to assess the threat.
Quick Look
- Targets: Iran launched missiles at Al‑Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the regional hub for U.S. Central Command, and reportedly at U.S. bases in Iraq.
- U.S. Response: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chair Dan Caine convened in the Situation Room as the Pentagon tracks the incoming threat.
- Precautionary Measures: Qatar has closed its airspace, and U.S. and UK embassies in Doha have advised nationals to shelter in place.
Missiles Fired From Iran Toward US Bases in Qatar and Iraq
Deep Look
Missile salvos toward U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq
Iran launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. forces at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and installations in Iraq—sites linked to U.S. Central Command. An explosion-cloud was observed over Doha, but it’s unclear if there was any structural damage or casualties. Reuters described a “credible Iranian threat” prompting Qatar to suspend its airspace earlier in the day.
U.S. homeland and global alerts intensify
In response to the missile attack, the White House deployed senior defense leaders to the Situation Room. Al-Udeid, the largest U.S. base in the region, was previously visited by Trump in May—a symbolic gesture undercut by the recent strike.
U.S. and U.K. embassies issued “shelter in place” advisories to American and British nationals in Qatar, emphasizing civilian safety amid heightened tensions.
‘Regional security recalibrated
Qatar’s decision to close its airspace and reposition aircraft reflects growing concern over spillover. Similar urgency was seen in Iraq, where U.S. officials reported threats near American consulates and bases. While still formally avoiding headlines, London and Washington are providing extra support to their citizens and assets across the Gulf.
Next moves and potential ramifications
Iranian state media called the strikes “Operation Glad Tidings of Victory,” signaling openness to further escalation. U.S. officials continue monitoring for more missile activity, cyber attacks, or attempts to choke the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Statements from the Pentagon underscore their preparedness to defend U.S. troops while cautioning against miscalculations that might tip the region into broader war.
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