Qatar ForMin Spox: Qatar was not previously notified by Iran of incoming missile attacks - the targets are not just military, but all Qatari territory

Qatar ForMin Spox: Qatar was not previously notified by Iran of incoming missile attacks - the targets are not just military, but all Qatari territory

Qatar Condemns Iranian Missile Strikes, Cites No Prior Notification as Regional Tensions Escalate

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that Iran did not notify the Gulf nation of its recent missile attacks, which targeted not only military sites but also civilian areas, according to a spokesperson. The attacks, part of Iran’s retaliatory response to U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian territory, resulted in 16 injuries in Qatar due to falling shrapnel, with one individual in serious condition.

Qatar’s air defenses intercepted 66 ballistic missiles and 12 drones launched by Iran, according to the Ministry of Interior. Despite the successful interception, debris from the attacks caused widespread disruption, prompting emergency alerts urging citizens to avoid military zones and report unexploded fragments. The Ministry of Defence emphasized that all missiles were neutralized before reaching populated areas, though two ballistic missiles struck the U.S.-operated Al-Udeid airbase, a critical hub for regional military operations.

The Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes as a "flagrant violation of national sovereignty" and an "unacceptable escalation" threatening regional stability. It reiterated Qatar's commitment to international law, reserving the right to respond to future attacks. The Ministry also criticized the targeting of civilian infrastructure, noting that such actions undermine principles of "good neighborliness".

The conflict has already impacted energy markets. QatarEnergy halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production following the attacks, causing benchmark European and Asian LNG prices to surge by nearly 50% and 39%, respectively. Regional energy infrastructure, including Saudi Arabia's Ras Tanura refinery, also faced drone attacks, raising concerns about supply chain disruptions.

The escalation has drawn international condemnation. A joint statement from Gulf nations and the U.S. labeled Iran's strikes "reckless" and "indiscriminate," while emphasizing the right to self-defense. Analysts warn that continued hostilities could further destabilize global energy markets and deter foreign investment in the region.

As tensions persist, Qatar and its Gulf allies have called for de-escalation and renewed diplomatic efforts. The outcome of these developments will likely influence regional economic stability and investor confidence in the coming months.