President Donald Trump has broken his silence following Iran’s missile attacks on US military bases in Qatar and Iraq, issuing a statement that has caught many observers off guard.
Earlier today (June 23), Iran launched a coordinated missile assault on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar — the largest American military base in the Middle East, which houses around 10,000 US troops. The Ain al-Asad Air Base in western Iraq, also home to US forces, was targeted as well, according to an Iraqi security official speaking to The Associated Press.
Despite the seriousness of the attacks, Qatari air defenses successfully intercepted the missiles aimed at Al Udeid, and officials have confirmed that no casualties were reported.
In an unexpected turn, President Trump responded not with immediate threats or military warnings, but with a message focused on de-escalation and diplomacy. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated:
“The United States will always defend its people and its interests. Today’s attacks were dangerous, but thanks to our strong military and trusted regional partners, lives were saved. We remain vigilant — but we also remain open to peace.”
Trump’s tone marks a noticeable shift from his previous hardline stance, particularly after calling the weekend’s airstrikes on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan nuclear sites a “spectacular success.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s Tasnim news agency claimed responsibility for the missile operation, calling it “Annunciation of Victory.” In a further twist, The New York Times reported that three Iranian officials said the strikes were coordinated with contacts in Qatar in an effort to minimize casualties — a highly unusual claim that has not been independently verified.
As tensions remain high, Trump’s statement appears to be an attempt to project strength while avoiding further immediate escalation — at least for now.
Iran launched missiles on a US base in Qatar (Stringer/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Now, Trump has issued a statement following a turbulent day in the Middle East.
The POTUS wrote on Truth Social: “Iran has officially responded to our Obliteration of their Nuclear Facilities with a very weak response, which we expected, and have very effectively countered.
“There have been 14 missiles fired — 13 were knocked down, and 1 was ‘set free’, because it was headed in a nonthreatening direction.
“I am pleased to report that NO Americans were harmed, and hardly any damage was done. Most importantly, they’ve gotten it all out of their “system,” and there will, hopefully, be no further HATE.
Donald Trump has issued a statement following Iran’s strikes on US air bases in Qatar and Iraq (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)
“I want to thank Iran for giving us early notice, which made it possible for no lives to be lost, and nobody to be injured. Perhaps Iran can now proceed to Peace and Harmony in the Region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
Trump added: “I’d like to thank the Highly Respected Emir of Qatar for all that he has done in seeking Peace for the Region.
“Regarding the attack today at the American Base in Qatar, I am pleased to report that, in addition to no Americans being killed or wounded, very importantly, there have also been no Qataris killed or wounded.
“Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
Qatar was quick to condemn missiles being launched on the US base, dubbing Iran’s attack as ‘flagrant violation’ of sovereignty.
“We are assured that Qatari air defences thwarted the attack and successfully intercepted the Iranian missile,” a statement from the Qatari’s read.
After the missiles were fired, Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian wrote on Twitter: “We neither initiated the war nor seeking it. But we will not leave invasion to the great Iran without answer.”
