On 23 June, an Iranian missile struck the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. The attack damaged a key communications dome. However, operations continued without disruption, and no injuries were reported. Satellite images have confirmed the strike.
Dome struck, but operations continue
The missile hit a geodesic dome used for secure satellite communications. Built in 2016, the structure was worth around $15 million. It formed an important part of the US military’s communications system in the region.
Al Udeid, located near Doha, houses the forward headquarters of US Central Command. As a result, the base plays a central role in military operations across the Middle East.
According to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, the missile caused only minor damage. More importantly, he confirmed that the base remained fully operational after the strike.
Missile response followed earlier US airstrikes
The Iranian strike came in response to US airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites. These attacks occurred during the recent 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel.
Following the initial US strikes, Iran launched 14 ballistic missiles. However, US and Qatari forces intercepted 13 of them. One missile hit what US officials described as a non-critical target.
US President Donald Trump later stated that Iran had provided advance warning. Consequently, defences were able to respond in time. “No lives were lost, and nobody was injured,” he wrote on Truth Social. “I want to thank Iran for giving us early notice.”
Satellite images contradict Iranian claims
Despite Iranian media claims that the base was “smashed” and its communications “cut,” the evidence suggests otherwise. Satellite imagery shows that only the dome was destroyed. The rest of the base appears undamaged and fully functional.
Shortly after the missile strike, a US-brokered ceasefire came into effect. This helped de-escalate tensions and prevented further conflict in the region.
