It has been learned that some U.S. military personnel have been told to leave bases in the Middle East.
The order comes amidst widespread unrest and threats of intervention from President Donald Trump. Qatar’s government confirmed that some U.S. personnel had left the Al Udeid Air Base, which is America’s largest military base in the Middle East.
Qatar’s International Media Office stated that the steps were part of broader efforts to safeguard the security of citizens and residents and to protect critical infrastructure and military facilities, adding that any further developments would be announced through official channels.
Trump said on Tuesday that he had cut off meetings with the Iranian regime, stating that there would be no contact until the government stops [unclear what is meant here]. He also urged the Iranian people to “take over” the country.
“Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price.”
“I have canceled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY,” he added.
Trump has repeatedly suggested that the U.S. might intervene against Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s regime, but he has not provided details of any plans.
Reports say Iranian authorities have killed more than 2,500 people, though the actual total could be much higher.
The White House confirmed on Monday that Trump was considering whether to bomb Iran in response to the crackdown.
White House press secretary [name missing] told reporters that diplomacy remains Trump’s first option, but that the president “has shown he’s unafraid to use military options if and when he deems necessary.”
“He certainly doesn’t want to see people being killed in the streets of Tehran. And unfortunately that’s something we are seeing right now,” she added.
Iranian authorities have used deadly force against anti-regime protesters and have cut off public internet access to prevent images and video from spreading globally.
The protests represent the highest level of unrest Iran has witnessed since nationwide protests against the death of Mahsa Amini at the hands of morality police in 2022.
Reuters contributed to this report.
It should be noted that the original text seems to have some parts that are incomplete or unclear, such as “saying there would be no contact until the government stops He also urged” which makes the rephrased text also have a bit of ambiguity in that section.