Qatar Waives Traffic Violations Amid Regional Tensions Following Missile Attack

Doha: Qatar’s Ministry of Interior has announced a full waiver of all traffic violations recorded on Monday, June 23, citing “exceptional circumstances” that unfolded in the country that day.

In a statement, the ministry acknowledged the swift and responsible response of both citizens and residents who, despite the situation, ensured continuity in reaching workplaces and essential service centres.

“This decision comes as a gesture of appreciation for the public’s urgent movement to fulfill national and professional responsibilities under extraordinary conditions,” the ministry said.

Officials clarified that this is a one-time exemption, applicable exclusively to violations committed on June 23, and does not set a precedent for future incidents. The ministry also emphasized the importance of continued compliance with traffic laws and regulations, urging motorists to respect the rights and safety of all road users.

Regional Escalation: Iran Launches Missiles at US Base in Qatar

The waiver announcement came on the heels of a major regional security incident. On Monday, Iran launched missile strikes targeting the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, in retaliation for recent American attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Qatari authorities confirmed that the country’s air defence systems successfully intercepted the missiles aimed at the base, which hosts the largest US military presence in the Middle East.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council stated that the attack was a response to the US airstrikes on Iran’s key nuclear sites, including an underground uranium enrichment facility at Fordow, hit by American bunker-buster bombs just a day earlier.

Following the Iranian strike, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait temporarily closed their airspaces, and flight operations in Dubai were also disrupted. The US and UK embassies in the Gulf region advised their citizens to shelter in place amid growing instability.

Iran: Attack was ‘Self-Defence’

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified on Tuesday that the missile strike was not an act of aggression against Qatar, but rather a legitimate act of self-defence in accordance with international law.

“The missile operation targeting Al Udeid base was carried out within the framework of Iran’s right to self-defence,” Araghchi said during a phone call with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani.

While Qatar has called for restraint from all parties, the incident has raised concerns about the escalation of conflict in the Gulf region, with diplomatic and aviation implications continuing to unfold.