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Iran Fires Back: Attacks US Base in Qatar; Trump Downplays Retaliation

By Inday Marisol | June 24, 2025

Iran Fires Back: Attacks U.S. Base in Qatar

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran confirmed Monday that it launched missiles at the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, in retaliation for American-led strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The attack triggered immediate diplomatic tensions, but no casualties were reported, and oil prices dropped sharply as markets viewed the move as restrained.

Iran’s National Security Council said the strike was a “proportional response” to U.S. bombings of key sites, including the Fordo uranium enrichment facility, which were carried out a day earlier in cooperation with Israel.

“The number of missiles used was the same as the number of bombs that the US had used,” the council stated.

Trump Calls Response ‘Very Weak’

Former U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed the attack on Truth Social, calling it a “very weak response” and expressing gratitude for Iran’s advanced warning, which allowed the base to be evacuated in time.

“No lives were lost, and nobody was injured… Perhaps Iran can now proceed to peace and harmony in the region,” Trump added.

Qatar and Saudi Arabia React

Qatar, which houses the largest U.S. military presence in the region, confirmed its air defenses intercepted the missiles targeting the base and said it “reserves the right to respond proportionally.” Blasts were heard in central Doha and Lusail, though Qatari officials later declared the situation stable.

Saudi Arabia condemned the attack and pledged full support to Qatar, escalating regional diplomatic stakes.

Celebrations and Warnings

Iranian state media showed crowds celebrating in Tehran, waving flags and chanting anti-American slogans. In contrast, France and China urged de-escalation, with French President Emmanuel Macron stating, “The spiral of chaos must end.”

The New York Times, citing Iranian officials, reported that the missile strike was designed to offer all sides an “exit ramp,” similar to Iran’s calculated response after a U.S. airstrike killed a top Iranian general in 2020.

Meanwhile: Escalation Between Iran and Israel

Parallel to the U.S.-Iran tension, Israel intensified airstrikes on Tehran, targeting sites like Evin Prison, Basij paramilitary bases, and the Fordo nuclear complex. Iran responded with fresh missile attacks on Israeli territory.

Iran’s health ministry reported over 400 fatalities from Israeli strikes. In contrast, Israeli officials stated that 24 people have died from Iran’s retaliatory attacks.

Outlook: Calm or Chaos?

With oil prices falling by over 6% amid relief that full-scale war may be avoided, analysts are watching closely. Any further escalation could risk destabilizing the Middle East, disrupting energy markets, and threatening international security.

Sources

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