Iran launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. military bases in the Middle East on Monday, in retaliation for the U.S. attacks on three Iranian nuclear facilities this past weekend, according to information provided to Axios by an Israeli official and another Arab official.
According to those sources, at least ten missiles were aimed at Qatar and at least one at Iraq.
The White House and the Department of Defense confirmed to Axios that they were aware of "potential threats" against the Al Udeid air base in Qatar, and that they are closely monitoring the situation.
Explosions were heard in the Qatari capital, Doha, on Monday night, and videos showing activated air defense systems circulated on social media.
Earlier, the government of Qatar announced the temporary closure of its airspace as part of preventive measures in response to the rising tensions in the region.
Al Udeid Air Base is the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East, although in recent weeks a significant portion of personnel and aircraft had been evacuated.
The United States, the United Kingdom, and China issued alerts to their citizens in Qatar to stay in shelters as a precautionary measure.
A military spokesperson from Iran stated that U.S. actions "expand the scope of legitimate targets" for the Iranian armed forces. "Serious consequences are expected," he declared.
In a message directed at the U.S. president, the spokesperson said: "Mr. Trump, the player: you may have started this war, but we will be the ones to end it."
President Trump had a meeting scheduled with his national security team this Monday at 1 p.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss the situation.
Previously, he warned that any retaliation would be met "with much greater force" than that used in the recent attacks.
Qatar temporarily suspends air traffic for safety due to increasing regional tension
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced this Monday the temporary suspension of air traffic in its airspace as a preventive measure to protect citizens, residents, and visitors amid the escalating tension in the Middle East, according to a report from the EFE.
Although the official statement did not directly mention the recent attacks involving Israel, Iran, and the United States, the measure is part of a series of precautionary actions "taken based on the events in the region."
According to Reuters, the decision came just hours after the embassies of the United States and the United Kingdom in Doha recommended that their citizens take shelter at their current location, “as a precautionary measure.”
These warnings triggered a wave of internal messages in educational and labor institutions in the Qatari capital.
Several American universities with campuses in Qatar — such as Texas A&M, Georgetown, and Northwestern — have sent instructions to their employees and students to either evacuate or stay at home.
The American School, although not in session, closed its campus and suspended its summer camps.
Qatar hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. military facility in the Middle East and the headquarters of the U.S. Central Command, with approximately 10,000 soldiers.
Reuters emphasized that sources from the U.S. government warn that an Iranian attack on American interests in the region could occur in the coming hours.
Meanwhile, the spokesman for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the security situation "remains stable," although the closure of the airspace reflects a scenario of increasing alert.
Frequently Asked Questions about Iran's Attack on U.S. Bases in Qatar
Why did Iran launch missiles at U.S. bases in Qatar?
Iran launched missiles in retaliation for U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities that took place last weekend. This occurs within a context of increasing tension between the two countries, with the U.S. targeting critical aspects of Iran's nuclear program.
How are Qatar's air defenses responding to the missile attack from Iran?
Qatar's air defenses intercepted Iranian ballistic missiles over Doha, according to images released after the attack. This demonstrates that Qatar has active and effective air defense systems to face conflict situations in the region.
What has been the international reaction to Iran's attack on U.S. bases?
Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and China have issued alerts to their citizens in Qatar, advising them to stay in shelters. Furthermore, the international community is watching with concern the escalating tensions in the Middle East, which could lead to a larger regional conflict.
What measures has Qatar taken in response to the growing tensions in the region?
Qatar has temporarily closed its airspace as a preventive measure due to the escalating tension in the region. This decision aims to protect both its population and the international interests present in the country.
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