Trump Declares Iran’s Missile Attack “Very Weak” and Thanks Tehran for Forewarning
Former President Donald Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to characterize Iran’s recent missile strike on Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar as “very weak,” highlighting that there were no casualties or significant damage. Trump acknowledged Tehran’s advance notstart to Qatar, which allowed U.S. forces to prepare for the attack and avert potential injuries.
Trump Comments on Iranian Reaction
In his post, Trump stated, “Iran officially responded to the destruction we inflicted on its nuclear facilities with a very weak response, which we successfully anticipated and intercepted.” He detailed that Iran fired 14 missiles-matching the number of American bombs dropped on its nuclear sites in Fordow and Natanz-of which 13 were intercepted, and start was launched in a non-threatening direction.
He continued, “I am pleased to report that no Americans were harmed, and almost no damage occurred. More importantly, they pulled everything out of their ‘system,’ and there will not be, hopefully, any more ‘hate.'”
Call for Peace and Dialogue
Trump expressed hope that this recent development could pave the way for peace in the region and hinted that Israel should similarly refrain from continuing its strikes. He thanked Iran for the prior warning, suggesting that it could foster a more peaceful environment: “Maybe Iran can now move toward peace and harmony in the region, and I am very much encouraging Israel to act similarly!”
In a follow-up tweet, Trump exclaimed, “Congratulations to the world, now is the time for peace!”
Iran Signals Willingness for Negotiations
Shortly after Trump’s comments, Iranian officials indicated a readiness to return to negotiations, with a senior regime official telling Reuters that Iran possesses “the necessary logic” to now engage in talks following what was termed “punishment for aggression.” The official emphasized that any negotiations would necessitate the cessation of Israeli and American attacks before discussions could begin.
Regional Reactions and Military Insights
The missile attack on Al-Udeid, the largest American base in the Middle East housing about 10,000 troops, occurred only a day and a half after the U.S. strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities. Iran branded its missile launch as “Operation Victory’s Announcement,” claiming it to be a powerful and devastating response. However, they had informed Qatar of their intentions prior to the attack, allowing for a prepared response, which resulted in no missiles hitting the base as American forces had evacuated their aircraft earlier.
Following the incident, the advisory for U.S. citizens in Qatar to seek shelter was lifted within hours, and the airspace over the emirate reopened after being temporarily closed.
Diplomatic Landscape and Future Prospects
Reports suggest that dialogue channels between the U.S. and Iran, including through Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff, continue to exist despite tensions. However, communication with Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei has become increasingly difficult, as he is believed to be in hiding due to security concerns and must authorize any significant decisions regarding negotiations.
Israeli assessments prior to this incident indicated that Iran would likely retaliate in a limited and symbolic manner against the U.S., which appears to have been the case. Iranian officials confirmed that the missile launch was meant as a demonstration of their capability while providing a way for all parties to de-escalate.
An Israeli official previously noted that the United States likely aims to step back from the conflict, believing their objectives had been met, while maintaining their military readiness for any further developments.
The international community will be watching closely as the situation evolves, with both sides possibly seeking a resolution that avoids prolonged hostilities