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Iran Launches Operation Basharat al-Fath: Missile Strikes on US Bases in Qatar and Iraq
Iran Launches Operation Basharat al-Fath: Missile Strikes on US Bases in Qatar and Iraq
Published: June 23, 2025 | By NRI Globe News Team
In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, Iran launched “Operation Basharat al-Fath” (Good News of Victory) on June 23, 2025, firing six ballistic missiles at the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and one at the Ain al-Asad Air Base in Iraq, targeting US military facilities. The attack, announced by Iranian state television IRIB, follows US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. For NRIs and the global Indian diaspora, this article provides a detailed, SEO-optimized overview of the crisis, its implications, and safety advice for those in the Gulf region.
Iran’s Missile Attack: Key Details of Operation Basharat al-Fath
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the launch of seven ballistic missiles targeting US bases, with six aimed at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and one at Ain al-Asad Air Base in Iraq. The operation, codenamed “Basharat al-Fath,” was described by Iranian state media as a “devastating and powerful” response to US aggression.
- Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base: The largest US military base in the Middle East, housing around 10,000 US troops and serving as the headquarters for US Central Command (CENTCOM). Qatar’s air defenses intercepted the missiles, with no reported casualties or damage.
- Iraq’s Ain al-Asad Air Base: Air defense systems were activated, and US troops took shelter. No immediate reports of damage or injuries emerged.
- Iran’s Stated Motive: The IRGC stated the strikes were retaliation for US B-2 bomber and cruise missile attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan on June 22, 2025. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council emphasized that the number of missiles matched the bombs used by the US, signaling a measured response to avoid escalation.
- Qatar’s Reaction: Qatar condemned the attack as a “flagrant violation” of its sovereignty, reserving the right to respond directly. The Qatari Foreign Ministry reported explosions over Doha but confirmed no casualties, thanks to effective air defenses.
- US Response: President Donald Trump, joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine in the White House Situation Room, warned that further Iranian attacks would face “force far greater.” The US is monitoring potential threats to other bases in Bahrain and the region.
Iran reportedly coordinated with Qatar to minimize casualties, notifying officials in advance, a strategy reminiscent of its 2020 response to the killing of Qasem Soleimani.
Why Iran Targeted US Bases in Qatar and Iraq
The missile strikes are rooted in escalating US-Iran tensions, driven by recent military actions:
- US Airstrikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites: On June 22, 2025, the US conducted strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, authorized by President Trump as part of a US-Israel campaign to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
- Iran’s Retaliatory Strategy: Iranian leaders, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Gen. Amir Hatami, vowed to respond to violations of Iran’s sovereignty. The IRGC framed the attack as a “proportionate” countermeasure targeting strategic US assets.
- Symbolic and Strategic Targets: Al Udeid, the largest US base in the region, and Ain al-Asad, a key facility in Iraq, are critical to US operations, making them high-value targets for Iran’s message of defiance.
Iran’s state TV broadcasted the launch with martial music, emphasizing the operation’s codename “Ya Aba Abdillah,” a reference to Imam Hussein, underscoring its symbolic significance.
Implications for the Middle East and NRIs
The attack has profound implications for regional stability and the Indian diaspora in the Gulf:
- Regional Escalation Risks: The strikes heighten fears of a wider conflict involving the US, Israel, Iran, and Gulf states. Bahrain and the UAE closed their airspace, and sirens sounded in Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet.
- Impact on NRIs in Qatar and Gulf: Qatar hosts over 700,000 Indian expatriates, and the Gulf region is home to millions of NRIs. The Indian Embassy in Doha issued advisories urging citizens to shelter in place and follow local guidance.
- Energy Market Disruptions: Qatar and Iran share the South Pars/North Dome gas field, and any conflict could disrupt global energy supplies. Oil prices fluctuated after the US strikes, impacting markets critical to India’s economy.
- India’s Diplomatic Role: With strong ties to the US, Iran, and Qatar, India is likely to push for de-escalation. The Ministry of External Affairs has yet to comment, but India’s history of mediation in regional crises may be pivotal.
Safety Guidelines for NRIs in Qatar and the Gulf
For NRIs in Qatar and neighboring Gulf countries, the following safety measures are recommended:
- Monitor Official Updates: Stay informed via Qatari authorities, the Indian Embassy in Doha, and trusted news sources like www.nriglobe.com.
- Adhere to Advisories: Follow shelter-in-place orders from the US and Indian embassies. Avoid unnecessary travel.
- Register with Embassies: Ensure registration with the Indian Embassy in Doha for emergency support.
- Stay Away from Crowded Areas: Minimize visits to public spaces until the situation stabilizes.
What’s Next: Potential Outcomes
The crisis could evolve in several ways:
- US Retaliation: President Trump’s warning suggests a strong US response if Iran continues attacks, potentially escalating the conflict.
- Diplomatic Efforts: Qatar, a mediator in regional disputes, called for a return to negotiations. India, Russia, and other actors may support de-escalation efforts.
- Iran’s Future Actions: Iranian officials, including Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh, hinted at preparedness for a prolonged conflict, though the measured strike suggests a desire to avoid all-out war.
- NRI Community Impact: Indian expatriates should prepare for potential travel disruptions and heightened security measures across the Gulf.
Conclusion
Iran’s launch of Operation Basharat al-Fath, targeting US bases in Qatar and Iraq, marks a significant escalation in the US-Iran conflict, with ripple effects for the Middle East and the Indian diaspora. NRIs in Qatar and the Gulf are urged to prioritize safety and stay informed as the situation unfolds. NRI Globe remains committed to delivering real-time updates and insights for our global readers.
Visit www.nriglobe.com for the latest on the Iran-US conflict, NRI safety advisories, and Middle East developments.
Keywords: Iran missile attack US bases, Operation Basharat al-Fath, Al Udeid Air Base Qatar, Ain al-Asad Iraq, US-Iran conflict 2025, NRI safety Gulf, Indian diaspora Qatar
