LIVE Updates: Iran Fires Six Missiles Toward US Air Bases in Qatar; Explosions Heard in Doha
Iran fires six missiles at US bases in Qatar; explosions heard in Doha. Bahrain closes airspace amid rising Middle East tensions and global diplomatic reactions.
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Tensions in the Middle East escalate sharply as Iran launched six missiles targeting US air bases in Qatar, with explosions reported over Doha. The attack comes amid ongoing regional conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Key Developments:
Missile Strikes on US Bases: Iranian missiles reportedly targeted US military installations in Qatar, including the strategically important Al Udeid Air Base, the largest American base in the Middle East. Explosions were heard in Doha, with no immediate reports of casualties. Qatar has temporarily closed its airspace for safety.
Regional Airspace Shutdowns: Following Qatar, Bahrain has also suspended its airspace amid fears of further Iranian retaliation after recent US strikes on Iran. The UAE and other Gulf nations remain on high alert.
Behind-the-Scenes Coordination: According to The New York Times, Iran coordinated with Qatari officials before the missile launch, providing advance warnings to minimize civilian casualties and avoid a wider escalation.
Global Reactions: Russia reaffirmed its “unbreakable” strategic partnership with Iran and supported Iran’s right to self-defense. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss de-escalation measures. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
US and Western Response: Former US President Donald Trump, speaking at a White House briefing, urged Iranians to “take away the power” from their regime if diplomatic efforts fail. British and US citizens in Qatar have been advised to shelter in place as a precaution.
Regional Tensions and Security: While oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains steady, threat levels are elevated. A drone crash in Amman, Jordan, caused property damage, and the Israeli military warned Tehran residents to avoid weapons sites. European nations responded diversely — France condemned an Israeli strike on Tehran’s Evin prison, Italy opposed potential EU sanctions on Israel, and Germany reported no immediate security impact. Separately, Iran arrested a European national accused of spying for Israel.
Live Updates:
22:57 IST – Bahrain announces temporary closure of its airspace as Gulf states brace for potential escalation.
22:54 IST – Qatar condemns Iranian missile attack but reports no casualties.
22:53 IST – Reports reveal Iran coordinated missile strikes with Qatar to minimize casualties.
22:52 IST – Missiles also reportedly launched at US troop bases in Iraq, according to a security official.
