Qatar intercepts Iranian missiles over Doha as explosions rock the capital

Qatar said its air-defense systems were actively intercepting incoming missiles on Thursday after a series of loud explosions were heard across the capital, Doha, as regional tensions continued to escalate following Iranian retaliation linked to strikes by the United States and Israel.

In an official statement, the Qatar Ministry of Defense confirmed that the country had been targeted in a missile attack.

“The Ministry of Defense of the State of Qatar announces that the State of Qatar has been subjected to a missile attack,” the statement said, adding that “air defense systems are intercepting the missile attack.”

Residents reported hearing powerful blasts across parts of Doha, while plumes of smoke were seen rising over sections of the city as defense systems engaged incoming threats.

Multiple missiles and drones intercepted

Qatari authorities later confirmed that fighter jets and integrated air-defense systems successfully intercepted several missiles and drones launched toward the country’s airspace. Officials described the attack as part of coordinated strikes across the Gulf region linked to retaliation by Iran.

Authorities said falling debris from intercepted missiles caused injuries and minor damage in several areas.

The Qatar Ministry of Interior reported that the number of people injured in connection with the attacks had risen to 16. Emergency response teams have been placed on high alert nationwide as security agencies continue to monitor the situation.

‘All red lines crossed’

Officials warned that the attacks represent a serious escalation in the regional conflict. Qatari authorities said “all red lines have already been crossed” as Tehran’s retaliation against the United States and Israel increasingly spills across the Gulf.

Iran’s missile and drone strikes were reported to have targeted areas close to key civilian infrastructure in Qatar, including locations near major transport and energy facilities.

Security measures were heightened around strategic sites such as Hamad International Airport and several industrial zones, with authorities temporarily restricting access in some areas as a precaution.

Heightened regional tensions

The attack underscores growing fears that the conflict could expand across the Gulf, a region that hosts major military bases and some of the world’s most critical energy infrastructure.

Countries across the region have raised their security levels amid concerns that further missile or drone attacks could target ports, airports, and oil facilities.

Emergency services and defense forces in Qatar remain on standby as officials continue to assess the situation and ensure the safety of residents and key infrastructure.