Qatar’s air defence systems intercepted a fresh wave of Iranian missiles targeting Doha on Friday, as hostilities between Iran and the United States continued to spread across the Gulf.
Residents reported hearing loud explosions over the capital, while emergency alerts were sent to mobile phones advising people to remain indoors and follow official safety instructions.
Qatari authorities said the armed forces engaged the incoming missiles and took measures to protect civilians and critical infrastructure. A child was reportedly injured by falling shrapnel, although officials had not announced any deaths at the time of reporting.
The latest attack came amid renewed Iranian missile and drone strikes against Gulf countries hosting United States military facilities or supporting Washington’s regional operations. Bahrain and Kuwait were also targeted, while air defence systems were activated in several neighbouring states. (AP News)
Iran has described its attacks as retaliation for continuing United States strikes on its territory. Washington has expanded its military campaign against Iranian defence, transport and energy infrastructure, further weakening diplomatic efforts to restore a ceasefire.
Qatar condemned previous Iranian attacks as violations of its sovereignty and international law. The government has maintained that it reserves the right to respond while calling for an end to actions that could widen the regional conflict. (Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Friday’s interception followed several attacks on Qatar in recent months. In February, Qatari authorities said they detected 83 ballistic missiles and 12 drones launched from Iran during successive waves of attacks. Most were intercepted by the country’s defence systems. (Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Security forces remained on high alert across Doha on Friday, with authorities urging residents to avoid gathering near fallen debris and to rely only on official information.
