In a dramatic twist, it was Qatar’s own air defense system—not U.S. interceptors—that initially shielded the Al‑Udeid Air Base from Iran’s multi‑warhead Ghadr‑H missiles. Seamlessly integrated and rapidly activated, Doha’s Patriot batteries detected and neutralized several incoming warheads, halting their approach before CENTCOM’s systems could fully engage. The speed and precision of Qatar’s defense network underscored the country’s strategic importance and deep coordination with U.S. forces. Experts suggest this success could reshape Gulf military dynamics and highlights Qatar’s growing role as frontline guardian amid Iran’s escalating retaliatory campaign.
