The Middle East is on high alert after Iran fired a barrage of missiles at a US air base in Qatar. The attack, which caused no injuries, has sparked a mix of reactions from world leaders.
US President Donald Trump has called for peace, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed to defend his country against any aggression.
What Happened?
The missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar is the latest escalation in a conflict that began on June 13 with an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear program.
Iran had threatened to retaliate against the US after American bombers dropped massive bombs on Iranian underground nuclear facilities.
The Iranian government gave advance notice to the US and Qatari authorities before the attack, which Trump has praised as a positive sign.
Trump’s Response
Trump has dismissed the missile attack as a “weak response” and has urged Iran and Israel to make peace.
“I want to thank Iran for giving us early notice, which made it possible for no lives to be lost, and nobody to be injured,” Trump wrote on social media.
“Perhaps Iran can now proceed to peace and harmony in the region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same.”
Iran’s Next Move
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has said that his country is ready to respond again if the US takes further action.
The attack has strained Iran’s relationship with its Arab neighbors, with Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq all condemning the attack.
Israel’s Role
Israel has carried out a series of attacks on Tehran, including a strike on a prison where Iran’s leadership holds political opponents.
The Israeli military has said that it is targeting the Iranian ruling apparatus and its ability to sustain power.
What’s Next?
The conflict has sparked concerns about the impact on global oil supplies, but oil prices have fallen 7% in volatile trading.
Qatar has reopened its airspace after a brief suspension, and Iran’s foreign minister has met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to seek backing for its next steps.
Regional Implications
The attack has significant implications for the region, with many countries calling for calm and diplomacy.
The US and Iran have been at odds for decades, and the current conflict has raised fears of a wider war.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Middle East is on the brink of a major crisis.