Iran has issued an official statement announcing the closure of its airspace to civilian aircraft. An exception is made for international flights entering or departing the country with special permission, writes the BBC.
Photo: Getty Images
It is also reported that the Aerospace Force of the IRGC and Iran's air defense systems have been put on high alert.
While US President Donald Trump considers the possibility of a military operation against Iran over its harsh suppression of anti-government protests, the Pentagon is reducing personnel at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
According to the BBC, some British military personnel are also being withdrawn from Al Udeid Air Base.
The UK has also temporarily closed its embassy in Tehran — it will operate remotely.
Officials told CBS, the BBC's American partner, that the partial withdrawal of US troops is preemptive.
Al Udeid is one of the most important American military bases in the Middle East; about 10,000 military and civilian personnel are permanently stationed there.
Iranian authorities have threatened to strike American military bases in the region in the event of a US attack. The British Ambassador and all diplomatic staff have been evacuated based on an assessment of the situation and a decision that prioritizes staff safety, a British government spokesperson said.
Comments