Weak Response, Expected: Trump on Iran’s Qatar US Base Attack
US President Donald Trump described Iran’s missile attack on the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar as a “very weak response” to American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, claiming it was anticipated and effectively countered. The attack, which occurred on 23 June 2025, involved 14 ballistic missiles launched by Iran, with 13 intercepted by Qatari and US air defences and one deemed non-threatening, causing no American casualties or significant damage, according to Trump’s statement on Truth Social.
“I am pleased to report that NO Americans were harmed, and hardly any damage was done,” Trump wrote, thanking Iran for providing “early notice” of the attack, which he said ensured no lives were lost. The Pentagon confirmed the base, the largest US military installation in the Middle East, was targeted with short- and medium-range missiles, but Qatari defences thwarted the assault. Qatar condemned the strike as a “flagrant violation” of its sovereignty, noting its airspace was briefly closed as a precaution.
Trump’s response to Iran’s attack on US base in Qatar
Trump’s remarks suggest a desire to de-escalate tensions, expressing hope that Iran’s retaliation has “gotten it all out of their system” and urging both Iran and Israel to pursue “Peace and Harmony in the Region.” He was in the White House Situation Room with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine as the attack unfolded, monitoring developments closely. The US had braced for retaliation following its bombing of Iran’s nuclear sites, including Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, on 21 June, which Trump claimed “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities, though assessments suggest the damage may be less extensive.
Iran’s military dubbed the Qatar strike “Operation Besharat Fatah,” asserting it was a “devastating and powerful” response to US aggression. However, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran is open to diplomacy if US and Israeli attacks cease, indicating a possible off-ramp. The attack has drawn international condemnation, with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Lebanon denouncing Iran’s actions, while French President Emmanuel Macron called for restraint and a return to negotiations.
