In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, Iran launched a direct missile attack on US military installations in Qatar, shaking the Gulf region and triggering a wave of emergency actions.
Airspace Shut, Sirens Sounded, Flights Diverted
The Qatari government swiftly closed its airspace, citing safety concerns amid rising regional tensions. Within hours, blasts echoed around Doha as Iran’s missiles streaked through the night sky, targeting the Al-Udeid Air Base under “Operation Heralds of Victory.”
The missile strike prompted sirens in Qatar, Bahrain, and Iraq, with governments urging citizens to take cover. Meanwhile, major airlines, including Qatar Airways, Air India, and IndiGo, announced emergency flight diversions and suspensions.
Iran Confirms Strike, But Denies Ceasefire
Iran’s National Security Council confirmed the attack, stating it was a direct response to the US bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities. They claimed to have matched the exact number of missiles used by the US in Operation Midnight Hammer.
While a senior Iranian official hinted at a ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar, Iran’s foreign minister later denied any such deal, stating no formal agreement had been reached.
Qatar Condemns Iran’s Strike on US Base
Qatar strongly condemned the missile attack, calling it a violation of sovereignty and reserved the right to respond. Reports later revealed that Iran had informed Qatar about the strikes in advance, aiming only at US military targets.
Neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia and Bahrain also condemned the attack and issued high alerts.
Trump Declares Ceasefire After Night of Chaos
In a surprise announcement on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump declared a phased ceasefire between Iran and Israel, calling it the “Official END to the 12-Day War.”
Trump said both countries had agreed to complete ongoing missions within six hours, after which a 12-hour ceasefire would begin.
Israel Silent, Blasts Continue in Baghdad
Even as Trump’s ceasefire news broke, explosions were reported in Baghdad, raising questions about the agreement’s enforcement. Israel has yet to issue an official statement, though media reports suggest Netanyahu may be on board with the truce.
Background: What Sparked the Crisis
The Iran-Israel conflict escalated after Israel launched ‘Operation Rising Lion’, striking multiple Iranian nuclear sites. The past 12 days of retaliation have claimed over 400 lives in Iran and 24 in Israel, drawing in the broader Middle East and putting global powers on edge.
