Iran launches missile strikes on U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq in response to U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed today it launched multiple missiles targeting U.S. military bases in Qatar and Iraq, in retaliation for the recent U.S. bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities . The offensive, dubbed “Blessings of Victory” or “Annunciation of Victory”, saw at least 10 missiles fired toward Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base and at least one missile launched at Iraq’s Ain al-Asad Air Base .

Residents in Doha reported hearing explosions and witnessing flares lighting up the night sky. Qatari air defense systems reportedly intercepted most of the incoming missiles, with its foreign ministry characterizing the attack as “a flagrant violation” of its sovereignty . Similar flare activity was spotted over Iraq’s northern skies, though details remain limited .

Iranian state media described the operation as “devastating and powerful,” emphasizing it was a deliberate and precise strike against what they labeled “U.S. terrorism” . The launch came after Iran’s nuclear sites at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan were bombed last weekend by U.S. forces in a surge of the Israel–Iran war.

Key Takeaways:

The Al Udeid Air Base, located near Doha, hosts around 8,000–11,000 U.S. troops and central U.S. air command فعالیت in the Middle East .

Qatar closed its airspace and advised citizens to shelter in place ahead of the attack. No casualties have been reported so far, and Qatar has no confirmed damage .

The U.S. Pentagon and White House say they are closely monitoring the situation. President Trump separately warned that any Iranian aggression would be met with a “far greater” response.

Why It Matters:

This marks one of the most direct military confrontations between Iran and U.S. forces in years. It significantly raises concerns over broader conflict, including possible disruption in global oil supply routes. Regional powers and global capitals—including Russia, China, Japan, and France—are urgently calling for de-escalation while monitoring fallout from this incident.

Next Steps to Watch:

Will any U.S. personnel or equipment be confirmed damaged?

Might Iran respond with naval blockades near the Strait of Hormuz?

Could Qatar or other Gulf nations issue formal reprisals or demand compensation?

More updates are on the way as governments analyze the impacts and contemplate next moves.