Qatar has temporarily closed its airspace to all civilian flights following urgent security advisories issued by the United States and United Kingdom, warning of possible Iranian retaliation in the region. The unprecedented move by Doha comes after Western intelligence agencies detected heightened military activity near Iranian nuclear facilities and missile bases, raising fears of an imminent strike.
The U.S. Embassy in Doha issued an emergency alert instructing American citizens to “avoid all unnecessary travel” and shelter in place, while British authorities advised against all travel to Qatar. The warnings specifically referenced intelligence about potential attacks on “aviation interests and energy infrastructure” across the Gulf.
Hamad International Airport, a major global transit hub, suspended all operations indefinitely, stranding thousands of passengers. Flight tracking data showed multiple international carriers abruptly diverting flights away from Qatari airspace, with some Dubai-bound flights rerouting over Saudi Arabia.
Defense analysts suggest the closure may be precautionary, given Qatar’s strategic position adjacent to the Strait of Hormuz—where Iranian forces recently conducted missile tests. The Qatari government emphasized the measure is temporary but provided no timeline for reopening airspace.
This development follows weeks of escalating tensions after Israel’s strike on Iranian nuclear facilities last week. Neighboring Gulf states have reportedly placed their air defenses on high alert, with Saudi Arabia scrambling fighter jets along its eastern border
