A missile was intercepted after Iran’s Armed Forces targeted Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Monday.
Iran launched a series of missiles at the largest U.S. military base in the Middle East in response to U.S. strikes on three critical nuclear sites in Iran. The Pentagon reported no casualties from the attack, which was aimed at sending a message while minimizing the risk of escalating conflict.
The missiles targeted Al Udeid Air Base, which serves as the forward headquarters for U.S. Central Command and houses approximately 10,000 military and civilian personnel. Officials indicated that both Qatar and the U.S. had received prior warning of the attack, although the channels of communication were not disclosed. Iranian officials stated that the attack was necessary for retaliation but also intended to provide a potential exit strategy for both sides.
President Trump commented publicly for the first time since the incident, expressing that he does not plan to retaliate. He thanked Iran for the advance notice and noted the absence of casualties among U.S. and Qatari personnel. He concluded his remarks by calling for peace.
Despite the lack of immediate casualties, U.S. officials remain apprehensive about potential retaliatory actions by Iran or its allies on U.S. soil.
In related news, Iran's missile strike coincided with Israel's announcement of multiple airstrikes, including one targeting Evin Prison in Iran, with promises of further actions in the coming days.
In economic news, oil prices fell over 7 percent, while stock markets rose, reflecting investor optimism that the U.S.-Iran conflict's repercussions would be limited.
World Central Kitchen has resumed meal preparation in Gaza after a pause due to Israel's blockade. The charity, founded by chef José Andrés, cooked nearly 10,000 meals on its first day back in operation, marking a significant return after a 12-week hiatus.
The charity had previously halted operations due to a near-total shutdown of aid deliveries imposed by Israel in March. A review by the E.U. suggested that Israel's actions in Gaza may have breached human rights obligations outlined in a treaty governing relations between Israel and the bloc.
In global technology news, a study from Oxford University revealed a significant disparity in artificial intelligence infrastructure worldwide. More than half of the data centers required for AI are located in China, the U.S., and the E.U., while many African and South American nations lack such facilities entirely. The research indicates that 32 countries possess the necessary data centers to support advanced AI tools, leaving over 150 countries without any AI infrastructure.
In international news, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III following recent Russian strikes. Meanwhile, the British government announced plans to designate a pro-Palestinian organization as a terrorist group after its members vandalized a military base and a golf resort owned by Trump in Scotland.
In France, officials reported that 145 individuals had been stabbed with needles during a nationwide music festival. In Mexico, a former goatherd has risen to prominence as one of the country’s most powerful lawyers. In Greece, nearly 200 firefighters are combating wildfires on the island of Chios, leading to emergency declarations and evacuations in several communities.
In the U.S., a heatwave is expected to bring the hottest temperatures of the year to much of the Midwest and eastern regions. In entertainment, Pixar's latest film, "Elio," had the lowest opening weekend in the studio's history.
In sports, players and fans expressed concerns regarding extreme heat at the Club World Cup, while the Bharat Army, India’s cricket fan club, rallied support for their team against England. Additionally, Liberty Media received approval to finalize its $4.2 billion acquisition of MotoGP.
In cultural news, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory released its first images, showcasing cosmic phenomena. Meanwhile, a historic factory in England is recognized as a precursor to modern skyscrapers, and solar-powered boats are enabling Indigenous communities in Ecuador to navigate the Amazon sustainably.
Lastly, the 100 best movies of the 21st century were highlighted, with filmmakers and fans voting on their top picks. The first 20 selections have been released, with more to follow later this week.
In closing, the economic landscape in China is evolving as growth slows, impacting the middle class and employment opportunities. The challenges faced by individuals from modest backgrounds highlight systemic inequalities in the job market.