Mon Jun 23 19:56:20 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Following an Iranian missile attack on the Al Udeid US air base in Qatar, several Middle Eastern countries, including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE, temporarily closed their airspace as a precautionary measure. Iran claimed the attack was retaliation for US strikes on its nuclear facilities and asserted it posed no threat to Qatar. Qatar condemned the attack as a violation of its sovereignty. The US confirmed the attack but reported no casualties. The airspace closures caused significant disruptions to air travel in the region.

**News Article:**

**Middle East Air Travel Disrupted as Nations Close Airspace After Iran Attacks US Base in Qatar**

DOHA, Qatar – Major disruptions to air travel in the Middle East occurred late Monday after Iran launched a missile attack on the Al Udeid US air base in Qatar. In response, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates temporarily closed their airspace, forcing numerous flights to divert and causing significant delays.

Iran’s National Security Council claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was retaliation for recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The Council asserted the strike “does not pose any threat to our friendly and brotherly country, Qatar.” The missiles used by Iran were short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles, according to a US defense official, who also confirmed there were no US casualties.

Qatar condemned the attack on Al Udeid, calling it “a flagrant violation of the State of Qatar’s sovereignty and airspace.”

The airspace closures resulted in immediate impacts on air travel, particularly in Doha, a major international transit hub. Flightradar24, a flight tracking website, reported numerous aircraft being forced to turn around. Bahrain and Kuwait cited the need for precautionary measures in light of regional developments in announcing their closures. The UAE joined the other nations in closing its airspace shortly thereafter.

It remains unclear when the airspace will reopen, leaving travelers and airlines facing ongoing uncertainty and potential delays.

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