Washington’s Chance to Force Qatar and Iran’s Breakup

For years, Qatar has tried to dance at two weddings. America’s launch of Operation Epic Fury is forcing Doha to choose one.

Within the first 24 hours of the combined U.S.-Israel campaign that began on February 28, Iran fired 65 missiles and twelve drones at Qatar, according to the Qatari government. By March 1, Al Udeid Air Base, the largest American military installation in the region, was reportedly hit twice. Iran subsequently targeted Qatar’s energy infrastructure, prompting Doha to suspend liquefied natural gas (LNG) production. On March 2, Qatar said it shot down two Iranian jets. Qatari spokesman Majed al-Ansari told the press on March 3 that “there were attempts to attack Hamad International Airport” in Doha.

About the Author

Natalie Ecanow

Natalie Ecanow is a research analyst for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Her work focuses on the Middle East.

Featured Tags

For years, Qatar has tried to dance at two weddings. America’s launch of Operation Epic Fury is forcing Doha to choose one.

Within the first 24 hours of the combined U.S.-Israel campaign that began on February 28, Iran fired 65 missiles and twelve drones at Qatar, according to the Qatari government. By March 1, Al Udeid Air Base, the largest American military installation in the region, was reportedly hit twice. Iran subsequently targeted Qatar’s energy infrastructure, prompting Doha to suspend liquefied natural gas (LNG) production. On March 2, Qatar said it shot down two Iranian jets. Qatari spokesman Majed al-Ansari told the press on March 3 that “there were attempts to attack Hamad International Airport” in Doha.