Qatar Intercepts Missiles, Drones, Shoots Down Two Iranian SU-24s

(MENAFN) Qatar announced on Monday that its air defenses successfully shot down two SU-24 aircraft and intercepted multiple missiles and drones launched toward the country from Iran.

“The Qatar Emiri Air Force successfully shot down two (SU-24) aircraft coming from the Islamic Republic of Iran,” said a statement from Qatar’s Defense Ministry.

The ministry added that its air defense systems also intercepted seven ballistic missiles, while the Qatar Emiri Air Force and Qatar Emiri Navy Forces intercepted five drones aimed at various areas across the nation.

“The threat was addressed immediately upon detection in accordance with the operational plan,” the statement said, noting that all missiles were neutralized before reaching their intended targets.

Qatar’s armed forces emphasized that they have “full capabilities and resources to safeguard the state’s sovereignty and lands, and to respond firmly to any external threat.” The ministry also urged citizens, residents, and visitors to remain calm, follow official security instructions, avoid rumors, and rely solely on information released through official channels.

The announcement comes amid a broader regional escalation following a large-scale U.S. and Israeli attack on Iran on Saturday, which killed several top Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries hosting U.S. assets.

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