The U.S. anticipated Iran’s retaliation after striking its nuclear facilities, and that response came with a missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. According to CNN, U.S. defense officials confirmed that Iran launched both short- and medium-range ballistic missiles at the base on June 21.

In a strategic move, the U.S. had already relocated military aircraft from Al Udeid days before the strike. Satellite images taken June 19 showed empty tarmacs, suggesting preparation amid rising Middle East tensions. No U.S. casualties were reported.

Two U.S. defense officials told CNN that this relocation was a protective measure to safeguard assets. U.S. Navy ships also left their Bahrain base prior to the strike, with their current positions undisclosed.

Qatar’s Defense Ministry stated its air defenses successfully intercepted the missiles. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari confirmed the attack was thwarted without casualties.

A senior White House official said, “We knew they’d retaliate,” referencing a pattern similar to the aftermath of Qasem Soleimani’s 2020 killing. Iran claimed it fired as many missiles as the bombs dropped on its nuclear sites and targeted only military locations to avoid civilian harm.

President Trump, in his initial remarks on Truth Social, did not directly mention the strike. Instead, he criticized media coverage of the U.S. attack on Iran, calling reports downplaying its effectiveness “Fake News.”

The White House and Department of Defense issued a joint statement confirming they are closely monitoring the situation and remain ready to respond if needed.