Qatar announced a temporary shutdown of its airspace on Monday, June 23, 2025, as a precautionary measure amidst escalating developments in the wider region.
The decision comes as Iran reiterated its threats to retaliate against the United States following recent strikes on its nuclear sites.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry stated that the airspace closure was “part of measures taken amid developments in the region,” without providing specific details on the nature of the threat. However, it emphasized that the move was to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
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Earlier in the day, both the U.S. and U.K. embassies in Doha released advisories recommending their citizens in Qatar to “shelter in place” until further notice. These advisories triggered a swift response across the country, leading to the closure of a number of schools in Qatar for tomorrow (Tuesday, June 24).
The move highlights the heightened tensions in the Middle East, with concerns of broader regional conflict growing. Qatar hosts Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East, which further underscores the sensitivity of the situation. While Qatari officials initially sought to reassure the public that the security situation remained stable, the airspace closure and embassy advisories reflect the serious nature of the perceived threats.