Qatar confirms partial withdrawal from US Al-Udeid Airbase

Qatari authorities have confirmed that a portion of personnel is leaving Al-Udeid Airbase, the largest US military installation in the Middle East, amid escalating tensions in the region. The base houses roughly 10,000 US troops.

In a statement posted on X, Qatar’s International Media Office (IMO) addressed circulating media reports regarding the departures, Caliber.Az reports.

“The IMO states that such measures are being undertaken in response to the current regional tensions,” the statement read.

“The IMO reaffirms that the State of Qatar continues to implement all necessary measures to safeguard the security and safety of its citizens and residents as a top priority, including actions related to the protection of critical infrastructure and military facilities,” it added.

A diplomat speaking to media described the move as “a posture change and not an ordered evacuation,” noting that no specific reason had been provided for the adjustment in personnel deployment.

The adjustment follows historical precedents: last year, more than a week before the US launched air strikes on Iran, some personnel and families were temporarily relocated from US bases in the Middle East. In June, following US attacks, Iran carried out a missile strike targeting the Al-Udeid base.

By Vafa Guliyeva