JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Monday, Iran fired missiles toward Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest U.S. military base in the Middle East.

Qatar’s government says all missiles were intercepted and no casualties or injuries were reported.

The missile attack was a direct response to the United States’ strikes over the weekend that targeted three Iranian nuclear sites.

Bruce Bole, who serves as an Atlantic Beach city commissioner and is a retired U.S. Navy captain, acquired significant expertise on the Middle East throughout his 30-year tenure as a Navy pilot.

“The Iranians essentially signaled their intentions. It’s advantageous that the base is located away from the main city, enhancing security. Additionally, there are formidable defense measures in place, including ships in the Gulf. The key objective is to ensure nothing breaches these defenses,” Bole explained.

Bole flew over 40 missions in the First Gulf War and is familiar with Al Udeid Air Base.

“With approximately 40,000 U.S. troops stationed at eight U.S. bases in the Middle East,” Bole said, “the focus now shifts to Iran’s next move.

“Iran needs to exercise caution in its actions. Any subsequent moves will be scrutinized closely, and if they directly target the United States, the repercussions could be severe, impacting them politically, economically, and militarily,” he commented.

With global tensions rising, military experts say it’s best not to panic but to stay prepared.

“It’s kind of a wait and see,” said Bole. “We have to be vigilant and make sure we take care of each other.”

Bole expressed confidence in the military’s ability to defend its assets and ensure heightened security at military bases around the world.