Qatar says 65 ballistic missiles, 12 drones intercepted in Iranian retaliatory strikes, 8 injured

​​​​​​​By Ali Altunkaya

Qatar announced that 65 ballistic missiles and 12 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were intercepted in a retaliatory attack launched by Iran against the US and Israel, leaving eight people injured.

The Qatari interior, defense and foreign affairs ministries officials provided details on the attacks from Iran at a news conference.

The defense ministry reported that air defense systems neutralized the missiles and UAVs. It said that despite the intensity of the strikes and their approach from multiple directions, defense systems demonstrated high effectiveness.

It confirmed that two ballistic missiles struck the US-operated Al-Udeid military base, while a UAV targeted an early warning radar installation. Officials emphasized that there were no fatalities.

The ministry also urged citizens, residents and visitors to remain calm, follow instructions by authorities, and avoid spreading or believing unverified information.

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry received 114 reports related to falling shrapnel and confirmed that eight people were injured, with one seriously.

Officials added that measures to maintain public order and protect critical facilities remain in place, and citizens should rely on information from official authorities.

The Foreign Ministry described Iran’s attack as “a flagrant violation of its national sovereignty, a direct infringement on its security and territorial integrity.”

It highlighted that the strikes represent “unacceptable escalation that threatens the security and stability of the region.”

Noting that Qatar has consistently called for dialogue, the ministry stressed that repeated targeting of Qatari territory is inconsistent with principles of “good neighborliness” and that no justification or excuse will be accepted.

It said renewed targeting undermines the foundational understanding upon which relations between the two countries are built.

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Demir in Istanbul