Washington: Former US President Donald Trump downplayed Iran’s missile attack on the American military base in Qatar, branding the strike as "too weak" to warrant a counterattack. Taking to social media, Trump declared that the US would not retaliate, adding that he hopes Iran abandons its animosity and chooses the path of peace.

Trump expressed optimism that Iran could be a catalyst for regional stability and said he would urge Israel to contribute to this goal. Mocking Iran’s response to earlier strikes on its nuclear facilities, Trump noted that the barrage of 14 missiles launched at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar was largely ineffective.

He claimed US defense systems intercepted 13 of the 14 missiles, with the sole one left untouched deemed non-threatening. Trump even thanked Iran for the forewarning, stating that the alert prevented any casualties or serious damage.

Al Udeid Air Base, the largest American military outpost in the Middle East, has served as a key operational hub since its establishment in 1996. Located in Qatar and spanning 60 acres, the base can accommodate up to 100 aircraft and houses nearly 10,000 US personnel. It plays a strategic role in American missions across Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.