Iran claims missile strikes on Qatar, Jordan and UAE in retaliation for US attacks

Iran has claimed responsibility for launching missile and drone strikes targeting Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, describing the operation as retaliation for recent US military attacks.

In a statement issued on Sunday (July 12), the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it fired multiple ballistic missiles at Jordan's Prince Hassan Air Base, claiming to have destroyed the facility's command-and-control centre and several hangars housing US drones.

According to the IRGC, the strikes were carried out in response to recent US military operations in southern Iran and attacks on the country's telecommunications infrastructure. The force also warned that any further US action would trigger an even stronger response.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has not yet commented on Iran's claims regarding the alleged strike on the Jordanian air base.

Meanwhile, Qatar's Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems successfully intercepted a missile that entered the country's airspace, preventing any reported impact.

The UAE Ministry of Defence also confirmed its air defence systems had engaged incoming Iranian missiles and drones, saying explosions heard across parts of the country were the result of interception operations. Authorities urged residents to remain calm and follow official safety instructions.

In Bahrain, the Ministry of Defence activated nationwide air raid sirens and instructed residents to seek shelter as a precaution amid the escalating regional tensions.

Iran's claims regarding the extent of the attacks and reported damage have not been independently verified, while the affected countries have yet to release comprehensive assessments of any casualties or destruction.