Qatar announces temporary closure of airspace amid Middle East tensions

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the temporary closure of the country’s airspace “in order to ensure the safety of citizens, residents and visitors.”

Shortly afterward, explosions were heard in Doha, apparently at Al Uldeid Air Base, which houses US facilities.

Due to the suspension of landings and takeoffs in Doha, around 100 flights bound for the country are being diverted to airports in the region.

The precautionary measure was taken in light of developments in the conflict between Israel and Iran and the attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities by the United States on Saturday.

The largest US military installation in the Middle East is home to dozens of aircraft and also 8,000 US citizens.

Iran has vowed to retaliate against the attack with B-2 stealth bombers and other aircraft and ships, saying the country would “respond proportionately” to the US.

Initial reports suggest attacks on U.S. military bases in Iraq are also underway, but the government there has reportedly denied the allegations.

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