Doha (TDI): The United States’ Embassy in Qatar issued an emergency security alert requesting American citizens residing in the country to “shelter in place until further notice” due to growing instability in the Middle East.
The alert, which was distributed via e-mail and posted on the official boards of the embassy, stated that this action was being taken “out of an abundance of caution” without any further elaboration on the nature of threat.Â
This alert has surfaced just a day after the US Department of State released a world security warning following the intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel. State Department’s notice, issued yesterday, warned that the conflict is causing disruptions to travel, with temporary airspace closures throughout the region.
“There is the possibility of demonstrations against US citizens and interests overseas. The Department of State urges US citizens abroad to exercise heightened caution,” the notice read.
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Qatar, which is home to the biggest US military base in the Middle East; the Al Udeid Air Base, has emerged as a strategic hub after the US itself struck three Iranian nuclear facilities, in wee hours of Sunday.
A previous warning from the embassy had also stated that US staff at Al Udeid must “exercise heightened caution,” with temporary restrictions on accessing the base. The measures are indicative of Washington’s keenness to safeguard its citizens and military personnel in the Gulf.
“For precautionary measures, we advise US citizens to remain indoors until further notice,” the embassy’s email to the citizens in Qatar or traveling to Qatar said, as reported by Al Arabiya English.
The embassy has advised US citizens to avoid large gatherings and remain informed through local media and official statements. It also encouraged the citizens to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), in order to receive updates in real time.Â
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