Some U.S. personnel at a key military base in Qatar have been told to be ready to leave by Wednesday evening, according to a U.S. official. This follows a recent statement from a high-ranking Iranian official about a previous Iranian attack on the base.
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the action at Al Udeid Air Base as a safety measure. Specific details about the potential evacuation, like whether it’s required or voluntary, who it affects (military or civilians), or the number of people involved, were not shared for security reasons.
Qatar has confirmed that they are taking actions “in response to the current regional tensions.” They stated that they are committed to protecting their citizens and residents, including safeguarding important infrastructure and military locations.
The Pentagon has not commented on these developments. The State Department has also not yet released any security advice for American diplomats or citizens in Qatar.
This precaution comes as anti-government protests continue in Iran. President Trump has stated he may use military force if Iran continues to strike back against the protesters.
Al Udeid Air Base, which houses many U.S. service members, was targeted by Iran in June after U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
Ali Shamkhani, an advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, warned the U.S. President to remember the destruction of the U.S. base in Al-Udeid by Iranian missiles. He stated this would help America understand Iran’s resolve and ability to respond to any attacks.
Iranian and Qatari officials spoke on Tuesday about the deadly crackdown in Iran and the U.S. threats to get involved if protesters are not spared.
Ali Larijani, of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, spoke with Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.
Al Thani said that Qatar supports efforts to calm tensions and find peaceful ways to boost security and stability in the region.
Iran’s June attack on the base created tension between Iran and Qatar, as Qatari officials said they were surprised by the attack.
The U.S. military has said that no American or Qatari personnel were hurt, and that the two countries worked together to defend the base. A Qatari military officer said that one of the missiles fired by Iran hit the base. President Trump stated that “hardly any damage was done.”
