Iran launched a coordinated missile assault on US forces stationed in Qatar and Iraq on Monday, marking a major escalation following US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The retaliation, dubbed “Operation Herald of Victory,” targeted the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar and the Ain al-Assad base in Iraq, both key US military installations in the region.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council claimed the number of missiles launched matched the number of bombs dropped by US forces during their attack on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites. State media described the strikes as a “proportionate response” to what Iran called a breach of international law and the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

In a statement posted to state media, Iran emphasized it had coordinated with Qatari officials in advance to minimize casualties. Qatar confirmed the strike, reported no fatalities, condemned the attack, and reserved the right to respond under international law.

Reuters reported hearing explosions throughout Doha. Axios reported that Iran launched six missiles during the operation.

Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem, speaking to Lebanese media, said, “Because Iran is rightful and is attacked, it will come out victorious.” He praised Iran’s leadership and warned that targeting Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the leader of the Islamic Revolution, would bring “grave consequences for the entire world.” Qassem said that Iran remains united and defiant in the face of foreign aggression.

Iran’s envoy to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Reza Najafi, called an extraordinary meeting of the agency’s Board of Governors in response to what he described as “the aggressive move of the United States and the Israeli regime” against peaceful Iranian nuclear facilities.

Najafi said US airstrikes violated the NPT and occurred while IAEA inspectors were present. He added, “Responsibility for the grave environmental consequences caused by the US attack shall be borne by the United States, the Israeli regime, and the IAEA.”

According to Iranian state media, Najafi further warned that the damage to Iran’s safeguarded nuclear sites represents an “irreparable strike” on the international nuclear regulatory framework. He said Iran would continue to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity under the UN Charter and the NPT.

Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces, vowed that Iran would deliver a “regretful response” to the attacks.

“Iran’s punishment of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu will continue with utmost might,” Mousavi said. He condemned what he called Trump’s support for a “fake regime” and expressed gratitude for the Iranian people’s support, promising a “crushing response” to future threats.

Reports noted that President Trump remains in the White House Situation Room with his national security team. The Pentagon and White House are monitoring the fallout and additional threats in the region.

Prior to the strikes, Fox News, the BBC, and The Wall Street Journal reported credible intelligence suggesting an imminent Iranian attack. Missile launchers were reportedly seen positioned near US targets in the Middle East.

“Iran is committed to maintaining its warm ties with Qatar,” the Iranian Supreme National Security Council said, according to state media, “and took steps to avoid endangering the brotherly and friendly country of Qatar and its people.”

Stacy M. Brown

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