US Army AH-64 helicopters deployed in the Middle East [AFP Yonhap News]

Reuters reported on the 14th (local time) that a recommendation for partial withdrawal was issued to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US military base in the Middle East.

According to multiple diplomats, some personnel stationed at Al Udeid Base were advised to leave by the evening of the same day. In response, a US official explained, "This is a precautionary measure in consideration of the escalating tensions in the region."

This development is noteworthy as it comes amid repeated suggestions from US President Donald Trump that he may intervene militarily in Iran's protests against economic hardship.

A European official told Reuters, "The possibility of US military intervention is high," adding, "Intervention could occur within 24 hours."

An Israeli official commented, "It appears President Trump has decided to intervene," but noted that the scope and timing of the intervention are still unclear.

In an interview with CBS Broadcasting on the previous day, President Trump warned, "If they do that, we will take very strong action," regarding reports that Iranian authorities would hang protesters.

President Trump also encouraged protesters on his social media platform Truth Social, writing, "To the patriots of Iran, keep protesting. Help is on the way."

US soldiers at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar gathered in an auditorium to welcome US President Donald Trump on May 15, 2025. [UPI Yonhap News] 

Iran has responded to military threats from the United States and Israel by attacking US military bases in the Middle East.

In June of last year, after Israel and the US bombed its nuclear facilities, Iran fired missiles targeting Al Udeid Base.

For this reason, the evacuation order for Al Udeid Air Base is being interpreted as a measure to prepare for an Iranian counterattack before the US intervenes militarily.

Reuters reported, citing Iranian state media, that Majid Musavi, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) aerospace force, stated on the same day, "We are at the highest level of combat readiness, capable of responding to any attack."