Qatar temporarily closed airspace amid escalating tensions between Iran, US and Israel

Qatar temporarily closed its airspace on Monday in response to escalating threats of Iranian retaliation against the United States, marking a rare move by the Gulf nation. The decision, announced by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, follows warnings issued by the US and UK, urging their citizens in Qatar to shelter in place. The country hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, a key installation for American forces, and is also a central hub for regional air travel through Qatar Airways.

The closure came as Israel intensified its military operations against Iran, striking high-profile targets in Tehran, including the gate of Evin Prison—known for holding political



prisoners—and the Revolutionary Guard headquarters. These attacks signal a shift in Israel’s strategy toward striking regime-linked institutions. The Israeli military warned that further strikes on symbolic and military locations would continue in the coming days.

Tensions escalated further after the United States launched strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, including the heavily fortified Fordo site. The US described the action as a one-time effort to neutralise Iran’s nuclear ambitions, but Iran condemned the move as a breach of its sovereignty. Iran’s military leadership has since threatened direct retaliation against American forces in the region.