The Pentagon has confirmed that an Iranian ballistic missile struck the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23. This base is a key hub for US military operations in the Middle East and houses a geodesic dome used for secure communications.
According to a Pentagon spokesperson, the missile caused minimal damage. The US and Qatari air defenses intercepted 13 out of 14 missiles fired by Iran. One missile was allowed to fly over as it posed no threat. Advanced warning from Iran helped US forces prepare for the attack, preventing any casualties.
Satellite images analyzed before and after the strike show the geodesic dome intact prior to the attack but removed in images taken days later. Some nearby buildings sustained minor damage, but overall, the base remains operational.
The Al Udeid Air Base serves as the forward headquarters for the US Central Command. It plays a crucial role in coordinating military activities across the region. The missile strike was seen as a retaliation for recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
US President Donald Trump described the missile attack as a “very weak response” and thanked Iran for giving early warning, which allowed the US to avoid any loss of life or injury.
The Pentagon emphasized that the base continues its mission alongside Qatari partners, ensuring security and stability in the region. While the strike briefly disrupted air travel in the Middle East, it did not escalate into a wider conflict.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the need for continued vigilance by US forces and their allies.
Iran has issued warnings of potential strikes on US bases amid stalled nuclear deal talks. For full details, read Iran Warns of Strikes on US Bases as Nuclear Deal Talks Hang in Balance. The situation adds tension to ongoing diplomatic efforts.
