Explosions were heard across the Qatari capital on Monday night shortly after the government suspended all air traffic in response to heightened regional tensions. The suspension follows Iran’s threats to retaliate against the United States for recent strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
AFP journalists reported hearing multiple blasts in central Doha, with bright flashes illuminating the night sky as interceptor systems appeared to neutralize airborne projectiles. The incident comes amid fears of a broader conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Qatar, a key US ally and host to the Al Udeid Air Base the largest American military installation in the Middle East has moved swiftly to adopt precautionary measures. “The competent authorities announce the temporary suspension of air traffic in the country’s airspace,” the Qatari foreign ministry said, citing “developments in the region.”
Iran’s armed forces issued a stark warning on Monday, threatening “serious, unpredictable consequences” for the United States after it supported Israeli strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities. Tensions have escalated since the first Israeli strikes on June 13.
The US Embassy in Doha promptly issued a security alert, advising American citizens to shelter in place, a sentiment echoed by British and Canadian embassies. “Out of an abundance of caution, we recommend American citizens shelter in place until further notice,” the embassy stated.
Satellite imagery analyzed by AFP revealed that the Al Udeid base, which housed nearly 40 military aircraft earlier this month, had seen a significant drawdown by June 19, suggesting a strategic repositioning of US assets.
Meanwhile, in Bahrain, which hosts the US Fifth Fleet, the American embassy announced a shift to remote work for some employees, and local authorities instructed government workers to work from home.
Despite the tension, Qatari officials downplayed the immediate threat. “The security situation in the state remains stable,” foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari posted on X, emphasizing Qatar’s diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis.
The United States has issued a global alert urging its citizens to exercise increased caution as conflict in the region threatens to spiral further.
