US and UK Tell Citizens in Qatar to Shelter in Place
The United States and the United Kingdom have advised their citizens in Qatar to shelter in place "until further notice." This follows increased regional tensions.
Advisory Details
The US embassy in Qatar issued a notice online suggesting Americans do so "out of an abundance of caution." The UK government stated its warning was in response to the US alert.
Regional Context
These warnings come after the State Department advised US citizens internationally to "exercise increased caution," following US strikes on nuclear sites in Iran. Iran has threatened retaliation.
Qatar's Response
Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that while precautions were being urged by multiple countries, the embassy notice did "not necessarily reflect the existence of specific threats." They added, "The security situation in the country is stable."
US Presence in Qatar
Qatar hosts the largest US military base in the Middle East, Al Udeid Air Base. Approximately 8,000 US citizens reside there, and the US has around 40,000 troops stationed in the Middle East.
Additional Warnings
Several universities and groups in Qatar have also issued warnings, advising students to go home.
US-Qatar Relations
Bilateral relations between the US and Qatar are considered strong, with Qatar playing a significant role in dealing with regional turmoil.