According to a report by The Times of Israel on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, strikes were reportedly carried out by Qatar inside Iran in response to Iranian retaliatory attacks across Gulf territories.
Israeli television channel Channel 12 (Israel) reported that Qatari forces conducted strikes targeting Iranian positions after Tehran launched missile and drone attacks across Gulf states. The reports said the strikes were part of a wider regional escalation following joint United States and Israeli military operations against Iranian military infrastructure.
A senior Israeli official told the Kan Public Broadcasting Corporation that Israel believes Saudi Arabia may soon launch strikes against Iran after Saudi territory was reportedly targeted in recent Iranian attacks. The official did not provide operational details regarding potential Saudi military movements or possible targets.
Gulf states have not publicly announced offensive military operations as part of the ongoing escalation. However, several Gulf countries have reported defensive actions, including interception of missiles and drones launched by Iranian forces toward strategic infrastructure and population centers.
Defense sources in Qatar said its air defense systems intercepted multiple incoming Iranian projectiles during recent attacks. Authorities also reported shooting down aerial targets over Qatari airspace, including fighter aircraft allegedly operating in proximity to Gulf territories, though these claims have not been independently verified.
The regional conflict intensified after U.S. and Israeli forces launched bombing campaigns targeting Iranian military assets. Tehran has responded with retaliatory missile and drone strikes against Gulf states, claiming the operations are defensive responses to foreign military attacks on Iranian territory.
Officials across the Gulf Cooperation Council have issued statements condemning Iranian attacks on civilian and military infrastructure. Member states said they reserve the right to defend their sovereignty and national security interests.
Energy markets have been affected by the escalation, with concerns about potential disruptions to oil shipping routes and energy export infrastructure across the Persian Gulf. International diplomatic efforts continue to seek de-escalation between the involved parties.
Related video