US military evacuates base in Qatar, as it did before previous strikes on Iran – Media
Illustrative photo: US soldiers being evacuated from Al-Udeid Airbase in Qatar (Getty Images)
The US has begun evacuating hundreds of soldiers from its largest airbase in the Middle East, Al-Udeid, located in Qatar, NBC News reports.
An unnamed US official and another source told the outlet that personnel from the airbase are being relocated to other facilities and hotels in the region. The move is intended to protect them from potential threats if a possible US strike on Iran triggers retaliatory actions from Tehran.
At the same time, the Qatari government stated that the personnel are being withdrawn from the base "in response to current regional tensions." The Qatari authorities emphasized in a statement that they will take "all necessary measures to safeguard the security and safety of its citizens and residents as a top priority."
As early as Sunday, January 11, Iranian officials said that US and Israeli military bases in the region could be at risk in the event of a US strike.
"US military and maritime centers will be our legitimate targets," said Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump promised "very strong action" against Iran if Iranian authorities begin executing protesters.
Evacuation from Al-Udeid Airbase
In June of last year, US military personnel were also withdrawn from Al-Udeid Airbase.
This happened ahead of a Pentagon operation targeting Iranian uranium enrichment facilities, which were struck.
In response, Iran attacked Al-Udeid Airbase.
An NBC News source said that at the time, the troop withdrawal was carried out at the last minute and with less coordination. According to the source, the current evacuation appears to be part of more coordinated actions ahead of a potential operation.
