Iran launched missiles at a US military base in Qatar on Monday, in what it said was retaliation for American strikes against its nuclear sites over the weekend. Witnesses reported hearing loud bangs in the sky above the capital, Doha, while videos showed bright flashes in the sky as air defence systems attempted to intercept missiles.

Iran launched missiles at U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq, officials said. Videos filmed by residents in Qatar showed flashes and explosions about an hour after the country announced it had closed its airspace ahead of an anticipated Iranian strike.

The Pentagon already had begun taking measures to strengthen its firepower in the Middle East and protect U.S. bases there.