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Iran on Monday night claimed it had carried out strikes against American military personnel stationed at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, according to reports on state-run Iranian television. The announcement was made alongside patriotic music, with a televised caption describing the attack as “a mighty and successful response by the armed forces of Iran to America’s aggression.”

Explosions Rock Doha, Airspace Shut

Shortly before the announcement, Qatar took the extraordinary step of closing its airspace as a precautionary measure amid growing tensions in the region. A Reuters eyewitness in the capital Doha reported hearing multiple explosions, following threats issued by Tehran in retaliation for US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, via a statement published on the state-operated Qatar News Agency, said, “This is part of a series of precautionary measures taken in response to recent developments in the region.” The ministry added that Qatari authorities were “closely and continuously monitoring the situation, assessing developments in coordination with regional and international partners,” and would “provide the public with updated information in a timely manner through official channels.”

US and UK Embassies Issue Warnings

The US Embassy in Qatar released a warning on its website earlier in the day, advising American citizens in the country to “shelter in place until further notice.” The message offered no further explanation. Attempts by the Associated Press to obtain comments from the embassy went unanswered. Hours later, the British Embassy issued a similar advisory, also without any detailed reasoning.

A senior official from the Biden administration confirmed to the Associated Press that both the White House and Pentagon were aware of the threats to Al Udeid Air Base and were monitoring the situation closely. The official requested anonymity, citing the inability to speak publicly on the matter.

Indian Embassy Advises Caution

In light of the unfolding situation, the Indian Embassy in Qatar issued an advisory urging the Indian diaspora to “remain cautious and stay indoors.” The embassy added, “Please remain calm and follow local news, instructions and guidance provided by Qatari authorities. The Embassy will also keep updating through our social media channels.”

Qatar’s Regional Role

Qatar, located directly across the Persian Gulf from Iran, hosts Al Udeid Air Base—the US military’s Central Command’s forward headquarters. The Gulf nation maintains diplomatic ties with Iran and jointly shares a massive offshore natural gas field with the country. Despite historical threats from Tehran targeting the American base, this is the first major escalation reported after recent US military strikes.

Qatar, which hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup and is home to the Al Jazeera media network, has in recent years worked to rebuild regional diplomatic ties after a lengthy blockade during former US President Donald Trump’s first term.