On Monday, June 23, 2025, Iran launched a missile attack on the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US military base in the Middle East. This strike was in response to US attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites. No casualties were reported, and Qatar’s air defenses intercepted most of the missiles. Here’s everything you need to know about the Qatar attack, Al Udeid Air Base, and its impact on the region.
What Happened at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar?
Iran fired around 14 short- and medium-range ballistic missiles at the Al Udeid Air Base, located 20 miles southwest of Doha, Qatar. The attack caused no injuries or significant damage, as Qatar’s air defenses intercepted 13 of the missiles. One missile hit a building near the base but did not affect military infrastructure. Iran informed Qatar and the US in advance, which allowed the base to be evacuated and US aircraft to be moved to safety.
The Al Udeid Air Base is a key hub for the US Air Force and Central Command (CENTCOM), hosting over 11,000 US and coalition troops. It supports missions across the Middle East, including operations against ISIS. The base, established in 1996, spans 24 hectares and houses nearly 100 aircraft, including combat jets, drones, and tankers.
Why Did Iran Attack the US Base in Qatar?
Iran’s attack was retaliation for US B-2 bomber strikes on its nuclear facilities over the weekend, known as Operation Prosperity Defender. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) called the US actions “aggressive” and vowed to respond. Iran’s National Security Council stated the missile strike matched the number of US bombs used, signaling a desire to avoid further escalation.
Iran emphasized that the attack was not aimed at Qatar or its people, describing Qatar as a “friendly” nation. However, Qatar condemned the strike as a “violation of its sovereignty” and airspace, urging all parties to return to diplomatic talks.
Qatar Airspace Closure and Regional Impact
Following the attack, Qatar temporarily closed its airspace, causing disruptions to Qatar Airways flights and other air traffic. Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and the UAE also shut their airspace briefly, leading to flight diversions and cancellations. Qatar Airways and other airlines, including Qantas, faced challenges rerouting flights, with passengers stranded at Doha’s Hamad International Airport. By 5 PM ET on Monday, Qatar reopened its airspace, and normal air traffic resumed.
Flight tracker data from Flightradar24 showed about 100 flights to Doha were affected, with some diverted to other Gulf hubs like Dubai. The airspace closures highlighted the region’s importance as a key route for flights between Europe and Asia.
US Military Presence in Qatar and the Middle East
The Al Udeid Air Base is one of eight permanent US military bases in the Middle East, alongside sites in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt. The US has about 40,000 troops in the region, with Al Udeid hosting the largest contingent. The base is critical for air operations, intelligence, and logistics, supporting missions in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.
Here’s a quick overview of key US military bases in the region:
| Country | Base Name | Key Role | Troops (Approx.) |
| Qatar | Al Udeid Air Base | CENTCOM headquarters, air operations | 11,000+ |
| Bahrain | Naval Support Activity | US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters | 9,000 |
| Kuwait | Camp Arifjan | US Army Central headquarters | Several thousand |
| Iraq | Al-Asad Air Base | Anti-ISIS coalition operations | 2,500 |
The US had taken precautions before the attack, moving aircraft from Al Udeid and placing bases on high alert. Satellite images from June 18 showed fewer planes on the tarmac, indicating preparations for a possible Iranian strike.
Reactions to the Qatar Attack
US President Donald Trump called Iran’s attack “weak” and thanked Tehran for providing advance notice, which minimized damage. Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran hours later, though Israel has not yet confirmed it. The White House stated Trump’s goal is to end the conflict and avoid further war.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed Al-Ansari, condemned the attack on X, calling it a breach of international law. The Gulf Cooperation Council, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, also denounced Iran’s actions.
Iran’s IRGC described the strike as “devastating,” claiming it targeted the “largest strategic asset” of the US in the region. However, the lack of casualties and damage suggests the attack was symbolic, aimed at showing strength without escalating tensions further.
What’s Next for Qatar and the Region?
The attack on Al Udeid Air Base has raised concerns about the stability of the Middle East, especially with ongoing tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US. Qatar, a key mediator in regional conflicts, is likely to continue pushing for diplomacy. The US has reinforced its presence with additional fighter jets and naval forces, signaling readiness to respond to any further attacks.
Analysts warn that Iran’s proxies, such as militias in Iraq and Syria or the Houthi rebels in Yemen, could target US bases in the future. However, Iran’s limited strike and the ceasefire announcement suggest both sides may seek to de-escalate for now.
For travelers, Qatar Airways flight status updates are available on the airline’s website, and air traffic is expected to stabilize. The US Embassy in Doha has lifted its shelter-in-place order and will resume normal operations.
1. What is the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar?
The Al Udeid Air Base is the largest US military base in the Middle East, located near Doha, Qatar. It hosts over 11,000 US and coalition troops and serves as the headquarters for US Central Command, supporting air operations across the region.
2. Why did Iran attack the US base in Qatar?
Iran launched the missile strike on Al Udeid Air Base in retaliation for US B-2 bomber attacks on its nuclear facilities. The strike was symbolic, with Iran giving advance notice to minimize casualties and damage.
3. Was anyone hurt in the Qatar attack?
No casualties were reported. Qatar’s air defenses intercepted 13 of the 14 missiles, and the one missile that landed caused no significant damage to the base.
4. How did the Qatar airspace closure affect flights?
The temporary closure of Qatar’s airspace disrupted Qatar Airways and other flights, with about 100 flights diverted. Airspace in Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and the UAE was also briefly closed, but all have since reopened.
5. What is the US doing after the attack on Al Udeid Air Base?
The US has reinforced its military presence with additional jets and naval forces. President Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran and Israel, aiming to end the conflict and avoid further escalation.
