Following Iranian missile strikes on a U.S. military base in Qatar, the Indian Embassy in Doha has issued an advisory urging the approximately 745,000 Indian nationals residing there to remain calm and stay indoors. The embassy is closely monitoring the situation and has assured the community that it will provide updates through its social media channels. This advisory comes in the wake of heightened regional tensions after Iran launched missiles at the Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts U.S. troops, in retaliation for American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend.
The missile strikes have triggered emergency responses across Doha. Schools, universities, and offices have asked people to remain indoors until further notice. The U.S. and British embassies have also issued alerts to their citizens, advising them to shelter in place due to a "heightened security threat." Qatar has temporarily closed its airspace as a precautionary measure.
According to reports, Iran launched six missiles at the Al Udeid Air Base. Explosions were heard across Doha and nearby Lusail, with some reports indicating visible projectiles in the sky. While there were no immediate reports of casualties, the situation remains tense. Qatar has confirmed that its air defense systems successfully intercepted the missiles launched by Iran, describing the response as effective and timely, further stating that no injuries or human casualties resulted from the attack.
Iran's Supreme National Security Council has claimed that the missile count matched the number of bombs the U.S. used during its recent strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The council insisted that the targeted base was located far from residential areas and posed no threat to Qatar. However, Qatar has condemned the attack as a "flagrant violation of its sovereignty, airspace, international law, and the UN Charter," and has warned that it reserves the right to respond proportionally.
The Indian Embassy's advisory emphasizes the importance of remaining calm and following local news, instructions, and guidance provided by Qatari authorities. This is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and well-being of the large Indian community in Qatar during this period of uncertainty. The embassy's prompt response and proactive communication are vital in reassuring Indian citizens and providing them with the necessary information to navigate the situation.
Air India has announced the suspension of flights over Middle Eastern airspace, including Qatar, in response to the escalating tensions and airspace closure. This decision reflects the airlines' commitment to prioritizing the safety of passengers and crew. Other airlines are also expected to make similar adjustments to their flight routes.
Qatar has called for restraint and urged all parties to cease military actions and return to diplomatic dialogue, while reiterating its opposition to regional escalation. The country has also stressed that such acts of aggression risk pulling the region into a wider conflict, with potentially catastrophic consequences for international peace and security.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming hours and days. The Indian Embassy continues to monitor the situation closely and is committed to providing timely updates and assistance to the Indian community in Qatar.
