Doha: Qatar has announced that its air defenses successfully shot down two SU-24 aircraft and intercepted multiple ballistic missiles and drones that were launched toward the country. The aircraft were identified as coming from the Islamic Republic of Iran.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Qatari Defense Ministry released a statement detailing the incident. The statement confirmed that the Qatar Emiri Air Force engaged and neutralized the two incoming SU-24 aircraft. Additionally, air defense systems intercepted seven ballistic missiles, while both the Qatar Emiri Air Force and Qatar Emiri Navy Forces successfully intercepted five drones targeting various locations across the nation.

The ministry underscored that the threat was managed immediately upon detection, following the operational plan, and assured that all missiles were intercepted before they could reach their intended targets. The statement further highlighted that Qatar's armed forces are fully equipped and prepared to protect the nation's sovereignty and respond decisively to any external threats.

The ministry also urged citizens, residents, and visitors to maintain calm, adhere to official instructions from security authorities, and rely solely on information disseminated through official channels, warning against the spread of rumors.

This incident follows a significant escalation in regional tensions, as the US and Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran. The attack resulted in the deaths of several key Iranian figures, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading to retaliatory drone and missile strikes by Tehran against Israel and Gulf countries hosting US assets.