Qatar temporarily closed its airspace on Monday in response to escalating threats of Iranian retaliation against the United States, marking a rare move by the Gulf nation.

Qatar temporarily closed its airspace on Monday in response to escalating threats of Iranian retaliation against the United States, marking a rare move by the Gulf nation.

The decision, announced by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, follows warnings issued by the US and UK, urging their citizens in Qatar to shelter in place.

The country hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, a key installation for American forces, and is also a central hub for regional air travel through Qatar Airways.