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Updated 14 January 2026 - Further details added as the story develops.
US reduces staff at key Qatar air base
The United States is withdrawing a portion of its personnel from the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, describing the move as a "precautionary measure" amid rising regional tensions, CBS News reported on Wednesday, citing unnamed officials.
Qatar responds to regional instability
The Qatari government confirmed the reduction in a statement, linking the decision directly to "current regional tensions." The Gulf state emphasized its commitment to maintaining security for citizens and residents, including the protection of critical infrastructure and military sites.
Iran-US tensions escalate
The drawdown follows heightened rhetoric between Washington and Tehran. US President Donald Trump warned earlier this week that the US would take "very strong action" if Iran executes anti-government protesters. Iran has vowed to retaliate against any US strike, with officials framing the threat as a deterrent.
Human rights organizations estimate that Iranian security forces have killed over 2,400 demonstrators during a violent crackdown on recent protests.
Recent military exchanges
In June, Iran launched a missile strike on Al-Udeid in retaliation for US airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. The attack underscored Tehran's willingness to respond militarily, a message reinforced this week by Ali Shamkhani, a senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
"It would certainly help create a real understanding of Iran's will and capability to respond to any attack,"
Ali Shamkhani, via X
Next steps
Officials have not disclosed the number of personnel being withdrawn or a timeline for the reduction. The US Central Command, which oversees operations at Al-Udeid, has not commented on the report. Observers are monitoring whether the move signals a broader shift in US force posture in the region.
