BREAKING: Iran has just launched 6 missiles towards U.S. bases in Qatar

Iran launched a missile attack targeting US military bases in the Middle East, intensifying tensions in the region. The missiles specifically hit the al Udeid air base in Qatar, while the air defense systems at the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq were activated in response. 

Explosions were heard over Doha shortly after Qatar shut down its airspace, signaling a serious escalation. The White House responded by stating that they were closely monitoring potential threats to the al Udeid base. This base is critical as it houses US Central Command's headquarters, and British military personnel serve there on a rotating basis. Recent satellite imagery suggests that many aircraft had been moved in the weeks leading up to the attack.

The missile operation, named "Basharat Fath" or "Promise of Victory," was launched by Iran’s armed forces. The operation’s code, "Ya Aba Abdullah," was reported by the Tasnim news agency. Iran’s forces claimed responsibility for the missile strikes, describing the attack on al Udeid as “devastating and powerful.”

This assault came shortly after Iran’s armed forces had issued a stern warning, promising “serious, unpredictable consequences” for the US following heavy strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites.

Donald Trump, who was in the White House situation room at the time, was informed of the situation as the missile attack unfolded. The US president, however, decided to proceed with a scheduled national security team meeting at 1 pm EDT. The administration issued a statement confirming awareness of the missile strikes and reassured that the White House and the Department of Defense were closely monitoring the situation.

In addition to the missiles launched at Qatar, Iranian media reported that the attacks also targeted US bases in Iraq. The Saberin News outlet, which is linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, confirmed these strikes.

Unverified social media footage showed explosions over Doha, with some indicating that the missiles may have been intercepted mid-flight. Multiple explosions were heard across Doha and the nearby Lusail area, and projectiles were reportedly seen moving through the night sky.

In the wake of these missile strikes, US officials revealed that Iran had positioned missile launchers for a potential broader attack on American forces stationed in the region. The Pentagon was actively tracking these threats, which had been deemed "credible." The Wall Street Journal reported that the move had raised alarms regarding the safety of US forces in the Middle East.

In preparation for possible retaliation, the United States moved more than a dozen planes out of the al Udeid base in Qatar. This decision followed a series of escalations, including Israel's involvement in the conflict with Iran.

Satellite images showed these aircraft being repositioned as a precautionary measure to safeguard vital resources. The move came after US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities earlier that same week, exacerbating an already volatile situation.

The al Udeid air base plays a central role in US operations in the region. Located outside Doha, it covers a vast area of 24 hectares. As the forward headquarters for US Central Command, the base oversees military operations in the Middle East. Additionally, the UK’s Royal Air Force (RAF) uses the base as their operational headquarters in the region.

Given the base’s strategic importance, it has become a target in this escalating conflict, as both sides show an increasing willingness to escalate their respective military actions.

Iran had previously warned of "everlasting consequences" for the US following its attacks on the country's nuclear facilities. In response, Iranian officials hinted at further reprisals, particularly targeting US military installations across the Middle East.

This marks a significant moment in a conflict that has seen growing tensions, with the US and Iran engaged in a bitter back-and-forth over military actions, economic sanctions, and nuclear development.

In the midst of the heightened military activity, the US government remains on high alert, with defense officials assessing the risk to American assets in the region. Both sides seem to be preparing for a protracted and increasingly dangerous standoff, which could further destabilize the Middle East.

The situation remains fluid, with the potential for more attacks as both Iran and the US brace for the next phase of their military and diplomatic struggle.