Fact Check: "Iran's missile attack completely destroyed communications at Al Udeid Air Base."
What We Know
On June 23, 2025, an Iranian missile attack targeted the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which is crucial for U.S. military operations in the region. The attack specifically hit a geodesic dome that housed equipment for secure communications, as confirmed by satellite images analyzed by the Associated Press (AP News). Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell later acknowledged that the missile struck the dome but stated that the damage was minimal, asserting that "Al Udeid Air Base remains fully operational and capable of conducting its mission" (PBS).
The attack was reportedly a response to U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, and it was noted that the U.S. had evacuated its aircraft from the base prior to the missile strike (Washington Post). While the dome was destroyed, images taken after the attack showed that the rest of the base remained largely intact, with only minor damage to nearby structures (Task & Purpose).
Analysis
The claim that the missile attack "completely destroyed communications" at Al Udeid Air Base is misleading. While it is true that the missile hit a dome used for secure communications, the Pentagon's statements indicate that the overall communications capabilities of the base were not entirely compromised. Parnell emphasized that the base remained operational, which suggests that alternative communication methods may still be in place (ABC News).
Furthermore, the Iranian narrative, which claimed that all communications were severed, appears to be exaggerated. Ahmad Alamolhoda, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader, stated that "all equipment of the base was completely destroyed," but this statement lacks independent verification and may be influenced by political motives (AP News).
The reliability of the sources varies; while the Pentagon and major news outlets like the Associated Press and Washington Post provide credible information, Iranian state media may present a biased perspective aimed at bolstering national pride or justifying military actions.
Conclusion
The claim that Iran's missile attack "completely destroyed communications" at Al Udeid Air Base is Partially True. The missile did indeed hit a critical communications facility, leading to some disruption. However, the Pentagon's assurances that the base remains operational and capable of fulfilling its mission indicate that communications were not entirely severed. Thus, while the attack caused significant damage, the assertion of a complete communication breakdown is overstated.
Sources
- Iran's attack on Qatar air base hit US dome device
- Iran's attack on Qatar air base hit geodesic dome used for ...
- Iranian missile hit US base during last month's attack in Qatar
- Iran hit dome on US air base in Qatar in June attack: Report
- Pentagon acknowledges Iran's attack on Qatar air base hit ...
- Iranian missile attack struck inside US airbase in Qatar ...
- Satellite photos suggest Iran attack on Qatar air base hit ...
- Pentagon confirms Iran's attack on Qatar air base hit dome ...
