Qatar Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Iran

Qatar Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Iran

Qatar has commenced active military operations against Iran in response to missile and drone attacks that struck several Qatari cities on Monday, the Qatari Ministry of Defense confirmed.

The Gulf nation deployed fighter jets to intercept incoming projectiles over its territorial waters, successfully shooting down two Iranian warplanes, seven missiles, and five unmanned drones.

The strikes followed a series of attacks targeting critical infrastructure, including energy facilities and Hamad International Airport, which was forced to suspend all flight operations.

Majed Al Ansari, a spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the country is not engaging in a full-scale war at this stage, but emphasized that Tehran must be held accountable for its aggression.

“These attacks cannot go unanswered. Iran must pay a price for violating our sovereignty,” he stated.

Qatar Energy announced the suspension of liquefied natural gas (LNG) production in the wake of the strikes, citing damage to vital installations. Iranian forces specifically targeted Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. military facility in the Middle East, located in Qatar.

The retaliatory operations mark a significant shift for Qatar, which has traditionally maintained a neutral stance in regional conflicts and often acted as a mediator between Tehran and Western powers.

Qatari officials confirmed that they are coordinating closely with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) partners and the United States to manage the security crisis.

Observers say the attacks and counterstrikes are part of an escalating cycle of military confrontations following the recent U.S.-Israeli strikes in Iran, which reportedly killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The situation remains tense, with the potential to further destabilize the already volatile Gulf region.

Qatar has urged calm and international support while reinforcing its air defenses and continuing precision strikes against aggressor targets.