Tipped off to an imminent retaliatory attack against the US, which has just launched, Qatar has temporarily closed its airspace, grounding flights and scrambling operations.

Middle East Tensions Escalate As Qatar Shuts Down Its Airspace – Iran Responds With Ballistic Missile Attack Against US

Qatar airspace is closed, forcing Qatar Airways to ground hundreds of flights and disrupting operations across the Gulf as Iran launches retaliatory strikes in response to US and Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.

What Happened?

On June 23, 2025, Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority announced the suspension of all air traffic due to security concerns. The move came after U.S. strikes (what it calls “Operation Midnight Hammer”) targeted Iranian nuclear sites at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.

Iran responded by launching six ballistic missiles at U.S. military installations, including the strategically vital Al Udeid Air Base outside Doha, which houses American and allied personnel. Explosions were reported over the skies of Doha, and several incoming commercial flights were diverted mid-air.

US Targets, Iranian Retaliation

Following the strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, Tehran vowed a “proportional response,” and its missile attack on U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq marked a significant escalation. While no American casualties have been confirmed, damage reports are still emerging, and tensions remain high. Qatar, while nominally a US ally and even host to US Al Udeid Air Base, is also a close ally of Iran.

Several embassies in the Gulf, including those of the United States and United Kingdom, issued shelter-in-place advisories and raised their threat alerts.

Impact On Air Travel

With Qatar’s airspace closed, Doha Hamad International Airport has come to a standstill. Qatar Airways and dozens of international carriers are rerouting or canceling flights. Regional aviation corridors are rapidly shifting, straining adjacent hubs in Muscat, Dubai, and Riyadh.

Travelers in the region should prepare for extended delays, diversions, and increased security measures. Those with upcoming travel plans through Doha are urged to contact Qatar Airways or their ticketing carrier directly and monitor developments.

Next Steps Uncertain

The closure of Qatari airspace earlier today was more than a precaution, but a clear sign Qatar had been warned of an impending attack. Iran has stated it will not stop at missile launches, and military analysts warn that maritime routes like the Strait of Hormuz could also be targeted.

This marks one of the most volatile episodes in recent Gulf aviation history, and the potential for further escalation remains dangerously high.

CONCLUSION

Qatar’s decision to close its airspace is a reflection of the growing instability in the Middle East as the Iran-US-Israel triangle erupts into open hostility. Whether this was the peak of Iran’s retaliation or just the beginning remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: air travel in the region has just entered a new phase of uncertainty.

image: Qatar Airways