Following recent events, the United States and the United Kingdom have advised their citizens in Qatar to shelter in place until further notice. The US embassy in Qatar issued an online advisory urging Americans to take this precaution “out of an abundance of caution,” a measure mirrored by the UK government in response to the US alert.
These warnings follow a broader State Department advisory urging increased caution for US citizens abroad after US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Iran has issued threats of retaliation, prompting the heightened security measures.
While Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the advisories from several nations, it emphasized that the embassy notices “do not necessarily reflect the existence of specific threats,” maintaining that the country’s security situation remains stable. The ministry affirmed that relevant authorities are actively monitoring the situation and are prepared to implement necessary measures to ensure the safety of all citizens, residents, and visitors.
Home to Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US military base in the Middle East, and an estimated 8,000 US citizens (according to the State Department), Qatar’s security is of significant international concern. The US maintains approximately 40,000 troops in the Middle East.
The US Embassy’s message prompted similar warnings from other organizations in Qatar, including several universities advising students to return home. The State Department highlights the strong bilateral relationship between the US and Qatar, emphasizing Qatar’s significant financial, political, and military contributions to regional stability.
The US strikes targeted sites including the Fordo uranium enrichment facility. Protests have erupted in several major North American cities following the attacks.
Europe anticipates President Trump’s arrival at the NATO summit, facing questions regarding the Iran situation and defense spending commitments, particularly concerning the 5% defense spending target he has demanded from allies.
Reports indicate damage to Evin prison, a notorious facility housing political prisoners, according to Iran’s judiciary. Several UK mosques have also expressed deep concern regarding the escalating tensions.