US and UK pulling some personnel from Qatar military base

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete January 14, 2026 at 06:09 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

The US and UK are reducing personnel at Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest US military base in the Middle East, amid rising tensions with Iran. The partial US withdrawal is described as a precautionary measure, while the UK Ministry of Defence declined to comment, citing operational security. The moves come as President Trump considers potential action against Iran over its crackdown on anti-government protests, with Iran warning of retaliation if attacked. The US Mission to Saudi Arabia has also advised its personnel to exercise increased caution near military installations. While some personnel have been told to leave, there are no immediate signs of a large-scale departure.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Saudi Arabia 30% X 30% Reuters 40% BBC 40% Middle East ×250% Ali Shamkhani 60% Al-Udeid Air Base ×380% UK ×380% Qatar ×285% Donald Trump ×490% United States ×890% Iran ×795%

Keywords

military personnel withdrawal 90% al-udeid air base 80% us-iran tensions 80% qatar 70% anti-government protests 70% iran crackdown 60% us military base 50% regional tensions 50% precautionary measure 40%