Tensions escalated further in the Iran-Israel war after the U.S. bombed Iran’s nuclear sites on June 22. Though many countries criticized the attack, Saudi Arabia maintained a cautious tone. That all changed on the night of June 23 when Iran retaliated by targeting U.S. military installations in Qatar, prompting a swift and firm rebuke from Riyadh.
Iran’s Missile Barrage on Qatar
On June 23, Iran launched a significant missile strike on U.S. forces stationed in Qatar. A reported 19 missiles were fired, with Qatar’s air defense intercepting 18 of them mid-air. The strike caused panic across Doha and led Qatar to immediately close its airspace.
Why Qatar Became the Target
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Geopolitical Location | Qatar borders Iran via the Gulf, allowing missiles to be launched without violating third-party airspace. |
| U.S. Military Hub | Home to Al Udeid Air Base, the United States’ largest military installation in the Gulf region. |
| CENTCOM Forward HQ | Qatar hosts the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command, with approximately 10,000 American troops stationed there. |
| Neutral Diplomatic Stance | Unlike countries such as Turkey and Pakistan, Qatar remained neutral after the June 22 U.S.-Iran clash, drawing Iran’s attention. |
| Message to Washington | Striking Qatar directly hit a strategic U.S. asset, signaling Tehran’s reach and resolve. |
Riyadh’s Sharp Response
On the same night, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry issued a harsh condemnation. The missile attack was labeled a blatant violation of international law and diplomatic norms, with no justification found for targeting Qatar. Riyadh emphasized that such aggression undermines regional stability and must be met with accountability.
Qatar’s Official Statement
Qatar confirmed the missile launch and defended its defensive actions:
- Missile strikes were accurately intercepted.
- The attack violated Qatari airspace and sovereignty.
- Qatar reserves the right to retaliate.
Qatar accused Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of carrying out the strike.
Iran’s Justification
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council provided a defensive rationale:
- The missiles did not target populated civilian areas.
- The strikes were meant to avoid direct civilian harm.
- Iran reaffirmed its historical and friendly ties with Qatar.
Saudi Arabia’s Selective Criticism
Interestingly, Saudi Arabia directed its anger solely at Iran, avoiding public criticism of the U.S. This reveals Riyadh’s continued alignment with Washington, deliberately distancing itself from the wider conflict and maintaining its strategic partnership.
Read More: Why Did Iran Attack Qatar? The Shocking Reason Revealed
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