Iran Retaliates: Missile Strike on US Base in Qatar Matches Bunker Bomb Count, Hinting at De-escalation
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Tehran Strikes Back: "Same Number of Missiles" as US Bunker Bombs
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Powerful Strike on Al-Udeid Air Base, But No Casualties
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Iran's Statement: "A Proportionate Response" to US Aggression
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Gulf Countries React: Condemnation and Airspace Closures
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Is Tehran Signaling a Ceasefire Path?
In a dramatic development following the US bombing of Iran’s underground nuclear sites, Tehran has launched a targeted missile strike on the Al-Udeid US Air Base in Qatar. What makes the move especially noteworthy is the message Iran attached: the same number of missiles were used as the number of bombs dropped by US B-2 stealth bombers during their precision strike.
This move, analysts suggest, may not just be about retaliation—it might also be Tehran’s signal to Washington that it doesn’t want further escalation.
A Calculated Retaliation?
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said the missile barrage was a “devastating and powerful” strike aimed squarely at the US base, but emphasized it was located away from Qatari urban areas and was "no threat to our friendly and brotherly country."
“...The number of missiles used was the same as the number of bombs the US used in attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities,” the council said.
According to Iranian officials, this "proportional" response was in retaliation for the use of GBU-57 ‘bunker buster’ bombs, dropped by B-2 ‘Spirit’ bombers on key nuclear sites like the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant—a facility deeply buried beneath a mountain.
No Casualties, Says the US
A senior American official, speaking to AFP, confirmed the strike but said no casualties were reported. The weapons used were identified as short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.
In Washington, President Donald Trump was rushed to the Situation Room, according to early reports, and is monitoring the situation. The US government has yet to issue an official response.
Regional Reaction: Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Step In
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Saudi Arabia condemned Iran’s action, labeling it an “unjustified attack” and expressed full support for Qatar.
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Kuwait reacted by temporarily closing its airspace, calling it a precautionary move amid growing tensions.
These moves highlight how even symbolic retaliation can have significant regional implications.
Diplomatic Implications: Hinting at Ceasefire?
Iran’s unusual focus on matching the number of bombs is being interpreted by some as a message of proportionality, not provocation. Tehran appears to be showing strength while also opening the door to negotiation.
This comes just days after the United Nations called the US bombing a “perilous turn” in Middle East stability. China and India have also urged both countries to pursue de-escalation through diplomacy.
Disclaimer:
This article was generated using AI-based editorial tools and is informed by verified reports. It includes facts reported by NDTV and AFP. Source article:
đź”— NDTV Original Article
