Iran Fires Missiles at US Bases in Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq Amid Regional Tensions

On June 23, Iran launched a coordinated missile attack targeting U.S. military bases across the Middle East, including the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, as well as bases in Bahrain and Iraq, in retaliation for recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Although multiple missiles were fired, initial U.S. assessments reported no Iranian missiles hitting the Al-Udeid base, with Iranian officials coordinating the strike with Qatari authorities and providing prior warnings to avoid casualties. Qatar strongly condemned the attack, despite its role as a mediator in U.S.-Iran nuclear discussions, and both Qatar and Bahrain temporarily closed their airspace as a precaution. The Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. airbase in the region and a significant strategic site visited by President Trump a month prior, was struck by three missiles according to Arab media, underscoring the symbolic nature of the Iranian retaliation. Regional airlines canceled flights due to escalating tensions and airspace closures, reflecting the broader instability in the Gulf. Iran characterized the attacks as "Operation Herald of Victory," emphasizing a message of strength while attempting to limit escalation by targeting bases away from civilian areas.