Iran strikes U.S. bases across Middle East amid rising tensions
A barrage of at least ten ballistic missiles has reportedly been fired at airbases in Qatar and Iraq
June 23, 2025 – Tensions in the Middle East escalated sharply today as Iran launched a series of missile strikes targeting U.S. military bases across the region. The attacks mark a significant escalation in the ongoing confrontation between Tehran and Washington, amid growing fears of a broader regional conflict. According to initial reports from U.S. defense officials, multiple missiles were fired at bases in Iraq, Syria, and Qatar, where American forces are stationed. Several projectiles were intercepted by U.S. and allied air defense systems, including Patriot and THAAD batteries, but damage assessments are still underway.
The Iranian government claimed responsibility for the strikes, stating they were in retaliation for recent Israeli air raids on Iranian military and nuclear facilities — which Tehran has blamed on U.S. intelligence and logistical support. A spokesperson for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the operation was a direct response to “American aggression and complicity in Zionist crimes,” warning of further consequences if the United States continues to support Israeli military actions.
The Pentagon confirmed the attacks and reported that no American casualties have been confirmed so far, though several installations were placed on high alert. U.S. forces across the region have been instructed to take defensive positions.
President Donald Trump, speaking from the White House, condemned the strikes as a “reckless provocation” and warned that “any harm to American personnel will be met with overwhelming force”.
Regional leaders, including those in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, have urged restraint, calling for a halt to further escalation. The United Nations Security Council is expected to convene an emergency session within the next 24 hours.
Iran says it used the same amount of missiles against Al-Udeid as the amount of bombs dropped by the U.S. on Fordow. The UAE has closed its airspace to civilian air traffic.
As of this writing, it remains unclear whether Iran will launch additional strikes or whether the U.S. will respond with force. What is clear, however, is that the region now stands on the edge of a potentially dangerous new phase in an already volatile geopolitical landscape.
