Qatar says 9 of 10 Iranian drones intercepted in latest attack

2026-03-07 - 06:52

Qatari air defenses successfully intercepted nine of ten Iranian attack drones launched toward the country since dawn Saturday, the Defense Ministry confirmed in a statement. One drone crashed harmlessly in an uninhabited area, with no casualties reported. The ministry emphasized that Qatari forces possess the necessary capabilities and resources to protect national sovereignty and territory. Official Response The statement urged the public and visitors to remain calm and follow official instructions as regional tensions continue to escalate. Qatar's successful interception marks the latest in a series of defensive operations by Gulf states facing waves of Iranian retaliatory strikes. Regional Context Iran has launched missiles and drones toward Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets since February 28, following the US-Israeli offensive that has killed hundreds including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attacks have caused casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure across the region, including ports and residential buildings, as Tehran maintains its campaign is justified retaliation for the military operation against its leadership.