Qatar Faced Huge Costs from Iran’s Strike, Still Chose Peace
Qatar says missile strike damaged its reputation and economy, but it chose diplomacy over retaliation
Qatar has revealed the full impact of last week’s Iranian missile strike on the Al Udeid airbase, which houses American, Qatari, and British troops. According to Foreign Ministry spokesman Dr. Majed Al Ansari, the attack was “not harmless” and caused major economic, military, and reputational damage. Still, Doha chose to de-escalate rather than respond with force.
The June 23 assault was Iran’s retaliation to U.S. strikes on three nuclear sites just two days prior. Qatar’s airspace was shut down for over six hours, rerouting flights and activating defense systems—causing serious disruption and financial strain.
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Qatar Responded with Defense, Not Escalation
Qatar acted swiftly to defend its skies. It deployed three Patriot air defense batteries and launched more than 200 missiles. Of the 20 Iranian missiles fired, 19 were intercepted—one landed at the base but caused no injuries.
Dr. Al Ansari said this level of response prevented greater damage. However, the choice to avoid further retaliation was strategic.
“We chose peace, because we’ve learned that’s the only path forward,” he said during a panel discussion in Rome.
Was the Attack a Surprise?
While Qatar received early warnings on the morning of the attack, officials weren’t sure if it would actually happen. Al Ansari, alongside top Qatari leaders, was present when the first missile struck around 7:30 PM.
Despite speculation, Al Ansari clarified that Qatar was not involved in any coordination with Iran and had tried to prevent the incident from happening.
Qatar’s Role in the Iran-Israel Ceasefire
Soon after the attack, Qatar was tapped by U.S. President Donald Trump to help mediate a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, which had been locked in nearly two weeks of deadly conflict. Hundreds had died, and infrastructure in both countries was badly damaged.
The ceasefire required intense negotiation—not just on military terms, but also on managing public perception. Qatar worked closely with both sides, as well as the U.S., to ensure national pride and political image were preserved in the process.
“National pride played a huge role in the talks. Any misstep could’ve collapsed the ceasefire,” Al Ansari noted.
Tensions Were Already Close to Home
Even before the missile strike, Qatar had reason to worry. On June 14, an Israeli attack hit the South Pars offshore gas field—connected to Qatar’s North Field—raising immediate alarms in Doha.
Iran later explained that its attack on Al Udeid was a direct response to the U.S., not Qatar, and reiterated its commitment to peaceful ties with Gulf neighbors. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian personally apologized to Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim in a phone call after the incident.
Diplomacy Still in Play
Qatar believes the ceasefire can last—if diplomatic momentum continues. Al Ansari pointed to recent U.S. and Iranian statements suggesting talks over Iran’s nuclear program could restart. However, Iran is seeking firm guarantees and possible sanctions relief before fully engaging.
The EU, GCC countries, and regional players like Oman and Italy are expected to help maintain dialogue and push for long-term peace.
Regional Stability Depends on Gaza
Al Ansari emphasized that any sustainable peace in the region will require addressing the ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He warned that rising instability is fueling radicalization and anti-West sentiment.
“This isn’t a side effect—it’s one of the main outcomes of the crisis,” he said. “And it will impact all of us unless we act together.”
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