Qatar Shoots Down Iranian Missiles As Tehran Expands Retaliation Across Gulf

Tensions across the Middle East deepened on Saturday after Iran widened its military response to the joint United States and Israel strikes, with multiple Gulf nations reporting explosions, alerts and emergency measures.

Qatar confirmed it intercepted incoming missiles, while Kuwait heard sirens and the United Arab Emirates shut its airspace, signalling the confrontation had spread far beyond Israel and Iran.

Qatar intercepts missiles

Qatar's Defence Ministry said its armed forces destroyed several incoming projectiles before they could enter the country's airspace. Officials stressed the interception was carried out quickly and under a prepared contingency framework.

The ministry said the missiles were dealt with as soon as they were detected "in accordance with the pre-approved security plan," adding that the Qatari Armed Forces have the full capabilities and resources to protect the nation.

Residents reported warning alerts flashing on mobile phones across the country, followed by sounds of explosions in the distance. Authorities did not immediately confirm whether any debris caused damage.

Iran broadens its counterattack

Iran had for months warned it would retaliate if attacked. After launching missiles and drones toward Israel, the response appeared to expand toward American military positions in the Gulf.

Explosions were reported near areas hosting U.S. installations in Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar as the regional conflict widened. Saturday's strikes marked the first time multiple Gulf states were simultaneously placed on high alert during the confrontation.

Sirens in Kuwait, US bases on alert

Witnesses in Kuwait reported air raid sirens and loud blasts. The country hosts U.S. Army Central, making it a sensitive military hub in the region.

Security forces were placed on alert as regional defence systems tracked incoming threats. Officials did not release immediate details about casualties or infrastructure damage.

UAE shuts skies, global travel hit

The United Arab Emirates closed its airspace as the crisis escalated, a move expected to ripple across international aviation networks.

The country hosts major long haul carriers Emirates and Etihad, and the closure is likely to disrupt flights between Europe, Asia and Africa. Aviation analysts warned that prolonged restrictions could affect global passenger traffic and cargo supply chains.

As military actions spread across the Gulf, governments raised security readiness levels, while the possibility of a wider regional war became a growing concern.