Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
On March 3, Qatar's Defense Ministry announced that the Qatari air force successfully shot down two Iranian SU-24 aircraft and intercepted seven ballistic missiles and five drones aimed at the Gulf state. The ministry stated that all missiles were neutralized upon detection, ensuring that no threats reached their intended targets, illustrating a robust defense capability against external aggression, according to aljazeera, aa, and channelnewsasia.
The escalation occurred following coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian positions, which reportedly resulted in significant casualties. In retaliation, Iran targeted various Gulf nations, including Qatar, with drone and missile strikes, prompting a fierce response from Qatari forces, according to aljazeera and aa.
This incident marks a historic moment as it is reported to be the first time a Gulf nation has engaged Iranian manned aircraft amidst increasing regional hostility. Following the strikes, Qatar's state energy firm temporarily halted liquefied natural gas production due to attacks on its facilities, highlighting severe implications for energy security in the region, according to channelnewsasia.