The order comes amid widespread protests in Iran and threats from President Donald Trump to intervene. The Qatari government confirmed that some US personnel had left Al Udeid Air Base, America’s largest military base in the Middle East.
Qatar’s International Media Office said the steps are part of broader efforts to ensure the safety of citizens and residents and protect critical infrastructure and military facilities, adding that any further developments will be announced through official channels.
President Donald Trump said Tuesday he has halted meetings with the Iranian regime and said there will be no contact until the government stops killing protesters. He also urged the Iranian people to “take over” the country.
LIZ PEEK: TRUMP PUT AMERICA FIRST BY SUPPORTING IRAN IN A CORNER
Some US service members have been told to leave military bases in the Middle East. (AP Photo/Chris Seward)
“Iranian patriots, KEEP PROTESTER – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Save the names of the murderers and abusers. They will pay a high price.’
“I have canceled all meetings with Iranian officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOP. HELP IS on the way,” he added.
Trump has repeatedly suggested the US could intervene against Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s regime, but has not provided details of any plans.
People gather during protest on January 8, 2026 in Tehran, Iran. Demonstrations have been going on since December, sparked by rising inflation and the rial’s collapse, and have expanded to include broader demands for political change. (Anonymous/Getty Images)
The White House confirmed Monday that Trump was considering whether to bomb Iran in response to the crackdown.
IRAN’S ‘DISCINCT’ DRONE IMPORTS SEE DEATH TOLL RISE AGAINST VIOLENT PROTESTS
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that diplomacy remains Trump’s first option, but that the president “has shown he is not afraid to use military options if and when he sees fit.”
“He certainly doesn’t want people to be killed on the streets of Tehran. And unfortunately that is something we are seeing now,” she added.
President Donald Trump has threatened to intervene against the Iranian regime. (Alex Brandon/AP Photo)
Iranian authorities have used lethal force against anti-regime protesters and shut down public internet access in an effort to prevent images and video from spreading around the world.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
The protests represent the highest level of unrest Iran has seen since nationwide protests against the death of Mahsa Amini by vice police in 2022.
Reuters contributed to this report.
