Doha, Qatar | June 24, 2025– US-Iran tensions: In a significant turn of events, US President Donald Trump declared a “complete and total” ceasefire between Israel and Iran, following 12 days of intense conflict that drew in regional and global powers. The phased ceasefire is expected to begin within 24 hours. However, both Israel and Iran have yet to issue formal statements regarding Trump’s announcement.
Missile Attack on Al Udeid Air Base
The ceasefire declaration came just hours after Iranian forces launched a missile attack on the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which Tehran claimed was retaliation for earlier US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Despite the barrage of 19 missiles fired from Iran, Qatari defense systems successfully intercepted the majority, with only one missile landing at the base. According to US military officials, no casualties or significant damage occurred, though flares and loud explosions alarmed residents in Doha.
Qatar’s Ministry of Defence confirmed the interception and condemned the strike as a violation of its sovereignty. Still, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council emphasized that the attack was calibrated to avoid civilian harm and to preserve its cordial relations with Qatar.
Responses from Leaders Amid Rising Regional Unrest
President Trump, addressing the situation via Truth Social, praised the restraint shown by both Israel and Iran, labeling the confrontation “THE 12 DAY WAR.” He thanked Iran for providing early warning, which allowed US forces to safeguard personnel and infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei defended the missile strike, stating that Iran would not accept violations against its sovereignty. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of further retaliation if provoked again.
Al Jazeera’s reporters in both Doha and Tehran noted that Iran views the confrontation as part of a broader strategic battle involving the US and European support to Israel. According to political analyst Marwan Bishara, these events reflect a changing regional dynamic, with Iran targeting US assets beyond Iraq for the first time.
Qatar’s Strategic Position and Regional Implications
The Al Udeid Air Base, established in 1996, remains the largest US military installation in the Middle East. Hosting approximately 10,000 troops and nearly 100 aircraft, it is a cornerstone for operations across Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.
Following the attack, Gulf states including Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and the UAE briefly closed their airspace, underscoring the regional alarm over escalating US-Iran tensions. Though airspaces have reopened, caution remains high.
As President Trump announced the ceasefire, he reiterated hopes for long-term peace in the region. Despite the relative calm, observers remain wary of future flare-ups in the volatile Middle East landscape, especially with US-Iran tensions continuing to influence regional stability.
