U.S. orders partial evacuation of Qatar air base as Iran tensions escalate

The U.S. military has advised some personnel at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar to evacuate by Wednesday evening, a U.S. official said. The decision came as tensions between Washington and Tehran intensified over Iran's crackdown on protesters.

A U.S. official speaking to The Associated Press on Wednesday on condition of anonymity described the move as a precautionary measure but declined to provide further details about the evacuation, including whether it was optional or mandatory, whether it affected troops or civilian personnel, or the number of people advised to leave. The official cited the need for operational security.

The evacuation follows remarks by a senior Iranian official referencing an earlier Iranian attack on the base. The timing coincides with President Trump's consideration of military action in response to the Iranian government's response to ongoing protests in the country.

Qatar's government confirmed the evacuations in a statement, saying the measures "are being undertaken in response to the current regional tensions." The Qatari authorities said they continue to implement measures to safeguard the security and safety of citizens and residents.

The Pentagon's Central Command declined to comment on the evacuation order. Al Udeid Air Base is one of the largest U.S. military installations in the Middle East.

Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated in recent days. On Tuesday, Trump posted on social media addressing Iranians demonstrating against their government, stating that "help is on the way." He also said all meetings with Iranian authorities have been canceled until the crackdown stops.

Iran's government has responded to the threat of U.S. military action by stating that American facilities in the Middle East would be considered "legitimate targets" if the United States attacks. The two countries engaged in a 12-day military conflict in June 2025