Qatar Closes Airspace Amid Fears of Iranian Retaliation Against US

( Newsweek )

Qatar announced it had closed its airspace Monday amid a "credible threat" against the massive, U.S.-run Al Udeid Air Base.

According to Reuters, the base has been placed on high alert, and the threat is linked to the possibility of an Iranian missile attack in response to the U.S. strikes on nuclear facilities on Saturday night.

Newsweek has reached out to the Pentagon via email on Monday afternoon for comment.

Earlier on Monday the U.S. Embassy in Qatar warned American citizens to "shelter in place until further notice."

What to Know About Al Udeid Air Base

Al Udeid Air Base, located southwest of Doha, Qatar, is the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East and a critical hub for American and coalition air operations across the region. Home to the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), U.S. Air Forces Central Command (AFCENT), and the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, the base supports missions in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, and beyond. Its strategic location and massive 12,000-foot runway make it a key asset for aerial refueling, reconnaissance, and combat missions.

The base was established in the 1990s and expanded significantly after the 2001 U.S. invasion of Afghanistan. It hosts thousands of U.S. and allied troops and houses advanced aircraft such as B-52 bombers, F-22 Raptors, and KC-135 Stratotankers. Al Udeid also plays a vital role in coordinating surveillance and drone operations. Its presence underscores the strong military partnership between the U.S. and Qatar.

On May 15, 2025, President Donald Trump made a surprise visit to Al Udeid Air Base—the first by a sitting U.S. president since 2003—addressing over 1,000 U.S. and coalition troops and praising their dedication, stating, "No visit in the Gulf would be complete without stopping to salute the people who keep America safe, strong and free".

Speaking at the base, Trump highlighted Qatar's planned $10 billion investment and $42 billion in defense purchases—including Boeing jets and drone systems—underscoring the strategic U.S.–Qatar military partnership.