In a major development gripping the Gulf region, Qatar News confirms that Qatar Airways continues to operate without disruptions following Iran’s missile strike on the US-run Al Udeid Air Base near Doha, Qatar. The incident, which caused a temporary Qatar airspace closure, occurred amid escalating tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The Qatar Ministry of Defence reported that 19 missiles were launched by Iran in response to recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Of these, only one missile reached Al Udeid but caused no injuries or casualties, thanks to Qatar’s efficient air defence systems.
Despite the explosions heard across Doha and visible aerial flares, no civilian zones were targeted, and Qatar Airways has since resumed scheduled international operations following precautionary measures and temporary rerouting via UAE and Kuwait airspace. However, the UAE airspace closure briefly affected routing for regional carriers before being reopened.
Qatar Condemns Violation of Sovereignty
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement condemning the missile attack by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, calling it a “blatant violation” of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law. The ministry reiterated Qatar’s neutrality and commitment to regional peace, emphasizing that the attack was not aimed at Qatari civilians.
“We express the State of Qatar’s strong condemnation of the attack on Al Udeid Air Base and consider it a flagrant violation of Qatar’s airspace and sovereignty,” said ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari.
Trump Announces Israel-Iran Ceasefire After Qatar Incident
In a surprising turn of events, former US President Donald Trump announced a “complete and total ceasefire” between Iran and Israel, following the Iranian strikes. Speaking from the Situation Room, Trump thanked Tehran for providing early notice, which enabled the US military to evacuate Al Udeid in time. “No Americans were harmed,” he posted on Truth Social, also acknowledging Qatar’s cooperation and readiness.
While Iran’s attack was described as a symbolic retaliation under Operation Besharat Fatah, it drew strong international criticism, especially with the risk it posed to critical infrastructure and civilian airlines such as Qatar Airways, a vital connector in Gulf air traffic and global aviation.
Airspace Situation & Impact on Flights

Following the attack, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain briefly shut down their airspaces as a safety measure. As of now:
Qatar airspace has reopened, and Qatar Airways flights are resuming with caution.
UAE airspace, once closed, is now open but on high alert.
Kuwait and Bahrain have normalized operations.
Doha Airport remains secure and operational under tightened surveillance.
Flight tracking websites showed brief diversions and delays for aircraft crossing Qatar and UAE airspace, but no major disruption to passenger traffic has been reported.
Regional Reactions
Saudi Arabia and Iraq expressed concern over the escalation. Iran, however, defended its actions as measured and claimed they were not directed at Qatar, but at the US military presence in the Gulf.
Despite the tense backdrop, Doha News reports that daily life in the capital has returned to normal, with heightened military presence around key infrastructure.
Al Udeid: The Strategic Hub

Al Udeid Air Base, established in 1996, is the largest US military base in the Middle East and houses nearly 10,000 troops and over 100 aircraft. It serves as the forward HQ of CENTCOM and plays a strategic role in US operations across Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.
Iran’s strike marked the first direct attack on a US base in Qatar, highlighting the growing reach and confidence of Tehran in the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict.
Final Thoughts
As the dust settles and ceasefire talks commence, Qatar Airways emerges resilient, reflecting Qatar’s preparedness and diplomatic stance amidst regional turbulence. The nation continues to serve as a vital player in Middle Eastern geopolitics and aviation, even under the threat of airspace disruptions and international conflict.
Stay tuned to Qatar News Today for real-time updates on the region’s security, air traffic developments, and statements from Doha and international partners.
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