The State of Qatar has condemned what it described as the targeting of its territory with Iranian ballistic missiles, calling the attack a "flagrant violation” of its national sovereignty and an unacceptable escalation threatening regional stability.

ALSO READ: RwandAir suspends Middle East flights amid US-Iran escalation

In a statement issued on February 28, the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the strike constituted "a direct infringement on its security and territorial integrity,” warning that it undermines the security of the wider region.

The ministry affirmed that Qatar "reserves its full right to respond to this attack in accordance with the provisions of international law and in a manner proportionate to the nature of the aggression,” stressing that any response would be aimed at defending its sovereignty and protecting its national interests.

While denouncing the strike, Doha reiterated that it has "been and continues to be among the foremost advocates of dialogue with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” consistently promoting peaceful means as "the optimal foundation for addressing differences and resolving disputes.”

It added that targeting Qatari territory "is inconsistent with the principles of good neighbourliness and cannot be accepted under any pretext or justification.”

Qatar said it has long sought to distance itself from regional conflicts and has facilitated dialogue between Tehran and the international community. However, it warned that "the renewed targeting of its territory does not reflect good faith and threatens the foundations of understandings” underpinning bilateral ties.

The statement also condemned violations of the sovereignty of the State of Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Bahrain, expressing "full solidarity” with the sisterly states.

Meanwhile, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in a statement from its foreign affairs ministry, also condemned and denounced "in strongest terms the blatant Iranian aggression and the flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan.”

"The Kingdom affirms its full solidarity with and unwavering support for the brotherly countries, and its readiness to place all its capabilities at their disposal in support of any measures they may undertake. It also warns of the grave consequences resulting from the continued violation of states’ sovereignty and the principles of international law,” the statement read.