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Updates since Thursday morning
- Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) reiterated its stay-at-home directive at midnight on Thursday.
- Qatar Airways operated limited relief flights out of Muscat and Riyadh even as the full suspension of regular operations continues owing to the closure of Qatari airspace.
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the United States will “bitterly regret” sinking an Iranian frigate off Sri Lanka coast.
- Loud booms echoed across Doha on Thursday morning, marking the sixth consecutive day of Iranian attacks on the Qatari capital.
- Qatar’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) said the country had been subjected to a rocket attack, with air defence systems intercepting the threat.
- Qatar’s National Emergency Alert System warned the public of an elevated security threat.
- The war between Iran, Israel and the United States continues with no deal in sight.
HIA urges passengers to stay away from airport as flight operations remain suspended
Hamad International Airport (HIA) announced that flight operations remain temporarily suspended following the closure of Qatari airspace by authorities on February 28.
In a statement posted on X, HIA has strongly advised passengers not to proceed to the airport until further notice, stressing that services will resume only once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirms the safe reopening of the airspace. Travellers are encouraged to contact their airlines for updates.
MOI confirms Ramadan working hours to continue
The MOI confirmed on Thursday that its working hours in its departments and service centres will continue as previously announced during Ramadan.
In a post on X, the ministry said that many transactions can be completed through the Metrash app and the ministry’s electronic platforms.
It said the General Directorate of Passports and its affiliated departments, in addition to the Department of Nationality and Travel Documents and the Criminal Evidence and Information Department, will operate from 8:00am–1:00pm.
As for the services of the General Directorate of Traffic, the Driver Licensing Department (Driving Schools), will receive visitors from 6:00am–11:00am.
The Technical Inspection Departments’ main building services in Madinat Khalifa, and external services in Al Maamoura will operate from 8:00am-4:30pm.
The Car Plate Manufacturing Workshop in Ain Khaled will operate from 8:00am–4:30pm and on Saturdays from 8:00am–12:00pm.
The workshops in Al Aqda, Al Wakrah, and Al Mazroua will provide services from 8:00am–1:00pm.
The External Services Department (other branches) will operate from 8:00am–1:00pm.
Qatar sends fourth identical letter to UN, Security Council over latest Iranian attacks on Doha
Qatar has sent a fourth identical letter to the United Nations’ Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and Permanent U.S. Representative to the UN and President of the Security Council for March, Michael Waltz.
Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN Sheikha Alya Al Thani delivered the letter on Thursday, which focused on the latest developments of the Iranian attack on Doha’s territories.
“Qatar reiterated its strong condemnation of this attack and affirmed its full right to respond in accordance with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations and in a manner commensurate with the nature of the aggression, in defense of its sovereignty,” Doha’s foreign ministry said in a statement.
Qatar’s PM-FM receives more phone calls
Sheikh Mohammed received more phone calls on Thursday from officials over the latest developments in Qatar amid the ongoing tense regional situation.
The officials included Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Defence, Helen McEntee, and Brazil’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Vieira.
During the phone calls, the officials expressed their concern over Iran’s attacks on Qatar and great emphasis on the need to return to negotiations and end the current regional escalations.
Qatar’s Amir receives more solidarity phone calls
Qatar’s Amir received more solidarity phone calls on Thursday following Iran’s attacks on Doha.
The phone calls included one from Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Prime Minister of the Netherlands Rob Jetten, and President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel.
All the phone calls were focused on Iran’s aggression on Qatar, which was faced with condemnation by all the leaders. There was also great emphasis on the need for the halt of the regional escalations.
Qatar’s Minister of State for Defence Affairs visits Air Defence Operations Center
Sheikh Saud visited the Air Defence Operations Center, where he was received by Maj. Gen. Mohammed Mubarak Al-Shahwani, Commander of the Qatar Emiri Air Defence Forces, on Thursday.
Sheikh Saud was also accompanied by H. E. Lt. Gen. (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces
During his visit, Sheikh Saud reviewed the air defence systems’ readiness and was briefed on the measures taken to enhance the security and protection of Qatar’s airspace and territorial waters.
Iran tells Azerbaijan it was not behind drone attacks, hints at Israeli involvement
Araghchi told his Azerbaijan counterpart that Tehran was not behind a drone attack on Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan exclave early Thursday.
During a phone call late Thursday, Araghchi denied that Iran fired any projectiles towards Azerbaijan and said that Iran’s armed forces are conducting the necessary investigation and review.
Araghchi also pointed out the role of Israel in such attacks in order to distort public opinion and destroy Iran’s good relations with its neighbours, Tasnim news agency reported.
Moroccan embassy shares important information for citizens
The Moroccan embassy in Qatar has announced an additional mobile phone number for citizens to contact the mission and make inquiries in light of the current regional situation.
The embassy also urged Moroccan nationals to remain cautious, avoid spreading rumours or misleading information, rely on official sources, and follow guidance issued by Qatari authorities.
Contact details for inquiries:
Mobile number: +974 66 68 48 61
Additional mobile number: +974 50 68 66 78
Telephone number: +974 44 83 18 85 / 84
Fax: +974 44 83 34 16
Email: [email protected]
Qatar Charity continues Ramadan initiatives worldwide
Qatar Charity said its offices in Qatar and around the world are continuing Ramadan projects, including food baskets, Iftar for those fasting, group meals, and urgent humanitarian interventions to support vulnerable families.
In a post on Thursday, the charity said its Ramadan initiatives are reaching hundreds of thousands of beneficiaries, thanks to support from the people of Qatar.
“We believe that goodness never stops under any circumstances but continues. Good deeds protect against misfortune,” the charity added.
Gulf diplomat disputes Witkoff account of U.S.-Iran talks
A Gulf diplomat with direct knowledge of U.S.-Iran talks has disputed U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s account of a key exchange with Iranian negotiators.
Witkoff had claimed on Fox News that Iranian officials told him they possessed enough enriched uranium to produce nearly a dozen nuclear bombs, adding: “They were proud of it.”
The diplomat said: “I can categorically state that this is inaccurate,” referring to Witkoff’s description of the conversation.
UAE businessman slams Trump over Iran war
Khalaf Al Habtoor, an Emirati businessman, slammed U.S. President Donald Trump over the Iran war, warning that Gulf states were paying the price for a conflict they did not choose.
Sri Lanka evacuates 208 crew from second Iranian navy ship
Sri Lanka’s navy has rescued and evacuated 208 crew members from a second Iranian naval vessel, moving them to safety, a day after a United States submarine struck and sank another Iranian frigate.
Qatar arrests 194 for filming, circulating videos and spreading rumours
The MOI announced that authorities have arrested 194 individuals of different nationalities for filming and circulating videos, spreading rumours and publishing misleading information related to ongoing developments amid Iran’s attacks on the Gulf state.
The ministry warned that such activity can incite public opinion and contravenes government instructions. The ministry also urged residents to rely only on official sources and said legal action will continue against violators.
Al-Khater joins remote classrooms as schools shift to online learning
Minister of Education and Higher Education Lolwah Al-Khater joined a remote classroom as schools across Qatar shifted to online learning amid regional tensions, interacting with students and teachers as several pupils told her: “We love you”.
Qatar’s Amir visits MOI National Command Center
Qatar’s Amir visited on Thursday the National Command Center (NCC) of the MOI. During the visit, Sheikh Tamim was briefed on the crisis and emergency management system, and the mechanisms for immediate action in response to various developments, including rapid response plans.
Sheikh Tamim was also briefed on the monitoring, surveillance, and follow-up systems, and the mechanisms for supporting decision-making in exceptional circumstances.
“The Amir commended the efforts made by the MOI members, appreciating their constant readiness to perform the national duty of preserving the security and safety of the nation,” state news agency (QNA) reported.
Larijani warns U.S. against ground incursion into Iran
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani warned that any attempt by the U.S. to send several thousand troops into Iran would be met with strong resistance.
In a post on X on Thursday he said: “The brave sons of Imam Khomeini and Imam Khamenei are waiting for you to disgrace those corrupt American officials with thousands killed and captured.”
“The land of Iran is no place for the hellish dance of demons,” he added.
Qatar’s PM-FM participates at virtual GCC-EU emergency meeting
Sheikh Mohammed participated in a virtual emergency meeting between officials from the Gulf Cooperation Council and European Union on Thursday.
The meeting saw condemnation of Iran’s attacks on the Gulf countries and emphasis on the need to halt escalatory actions in the region and returning to the negotiations’ table.
“He [Sheikh Mohammed] noted that the State of Qatar has always been keen to distance itself from regional conflicts and has sought to facilitate dialogue between Iran and the international community,” Doha’s foreign ministry said in a statement.
“However, the renewed targeting of its territory does not reflect good faith and threatens the foundation of understanding upon which bilateral relations between the two countries are built,” it added.
Qatar’s PM-FM receives phone calls from officials
Sheikh Mohammed received phone calls from more officials on Thursday that dealt with the developments in Qatar.
The officials included Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popsoi, and Nepal’s Acting Prime Minister, Sushila Karki.
Discussions centred on the regional escalations while placing great emphasis on the need to halt them and return to dialogue.
Qatar’s Amir receives phone calls from Finland, Belgium leaders
Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received phone calls on Thursday from Belgium’s King Philippe and Finland’s President Alexander Stubb.
Both phone calls dealt with the developments in Qatar, with the leaders expressing their condemnation of Iran’s attacks on the country.
Italy considers sending air defence systems to Gulf amid Iranian strikes
Italy is preparing to provide military aid, including advanced air defence systems, to Gulf countries that have requested support following Iranian air strikes in the region, sources told Reuters on Thursday.
Starmer says UK to send four Typhoon jets to Qatar
The UK will send four Typhoon fighter jets to Qatar to strengthen its operations in the region, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Thursday.
U.S. Air Force test launches Minuteman III from Vandenberg Space Force Base
The U.S. Air Force launched a Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base in a scheduled test of the nation’s nuclear deterrent.
France condemns Iranian attacks on Qatar, vows support for Doha
France has strongly condemned the recent Iranian missile and drone attacks on Qatar, expressing its stance “in the strongest possible terms” and reaffirming solidarity with Doha.
In a statement, the French Embassy in Qatar highlighted the strategic partnership between the two countries and reiterated France’s commitment to assisting in the defence of Qatar’s security and territorial integrity.
Qatar intercepts 13 Iranian missiles, four drones
The MOD announced that Qatar was targeted by 14 ballistic missiles and four drones launched from Iran on Thursday.
Qatar’s Armed Forces successfully intercepted 13 missiles and all four drones, with one missile falling into territorial waters. No casualties were reported.
Oman FM: working to help people fly home from Gulf
Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said in a post on X on Thursday the Omani government is working with foreign governments and international airlines to organise flights for people hoping to return home from the Gulf, regardless of their nationality.
Spain evacuates 171 citizens from the Middle East
Spain has evacuated 171 of its nationals from the Middle East as tensions across the region continue to escalate following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
A Spanish Air Force Airbus A330 departed from Oman and landed early Thursday at the Torrejon Air Base near Madrid, authorities said.
Spanish officials have also added that additional citizens are leaving the region on commercial flights.
The Spanish government has also declined a U.S. request to allow American forces to use two Spanish military bases for operations in its war against Iran.
U.S. embassy announces helpline and departure assistance
The U.S. Embassy in Doha is exploring options to help American citizens reach a safe destination.
The embassy updated its security alert on Thursday, reminding that on March 3, the U.S. Department of State ordered non-emergency government employees and their families to leave Qatar due to the risk of armed conflict.
Security threat eliminated, situation back to normal
Residents in Qatar received a Public Safety Alert around 2:30pm stating that the security threat had been eliminated and the situation had returned to normal.
Singapore to operate repatriation flights
Singapore will operate repatriation flights from Muscat, Oman on Saturday and Sunday to evacuate citizens amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Gan Siow Huang said about a quarter of e-registered Singaporeans have sought assistance to return home.
The flights will serve citizens in Oman and the UAE, where around 60 percent of e-registered Singaporeans are located.
School timings adjusted for March 8–12
Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE) announced updated timings for private and public schools between 8 and 12 March.
During the specified dates, primary school hours will run from 10:00am to 12:35pm. Middle and secondary schools will operate from 10:30am to 1:15pm.
Qatari, British defence officials discuss security developments
Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani received a phone call from the United Kingdom’s Defence Secretary John Healey to discuss recent security developments.
“During the call, the two sides reviewed the latest regional developments and security updates, as well as discussing aspects of joint cooperation and coordination in light of the current circumstances,” the MOD said in a statement.
Qatar’s PM-FM receives phone call from Austrian Chancellor
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani received a phone call from the Chancellor of Austria Christian Stocker.
During the call on Thursday, both sides discussed the developments of the military escalation in the region and its serious repercussions on regional and international security and stability.
The two officials also discussed ways to resolve all disputes through peaceful means.
Sheikh Mohammed also stressed the need for an immediate cessation of any escalatory actions and a return to the negotiating table.
Qatar’s National Emergency Alert System: ‘elevated’ security threat
Qatar’s National Emergency Alert System alerted the public of an elevated security threat in the Gulf state as Iran renewed its missile attacks on Doha. The alert urged the public to stay home and away from windows.
Qatar condemns attempts to attack Turkiye, Azerbaijan by Iran
Qatar has strongly condemned Iran’s attempts to target Turkiye with a ballistic missile and an airport in Azerbaijan using drones, saying they were part of Tehran’s “reckless” actions.
In a statement on Thursday, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the incidents as a “dangerous escalation” and a “blatant violation of state sovereignty”, warning that they threaten regional security and stability.
Iran’s Armed Forces have also denied claims of the missile launch toward Turkiye, saying the military respects Ankara’s sovereignty and that no such strike occurred.
MOD: Qatar under rocket attacks with interceptions underway
The MOD announced that the country was subjected to a rocket attack, with air defence systems actively intercepting the threat. Authorities have urged citizens, residents, and visitors to remain calm and follow official instructions from security services.
Multiple explosions heard across Doha
Loud explosions continued across Doha on Thursday at noon, minutes after initial blasts, as white smoke in the cloudy sky suggested a possible missile interception.
Loud booms heard across Doha around 11:54am
Residents in Doha heard loud booms on Thursday around 11:54am local time.
U.S. Senator: Arab partners to play larger role in strikes on Tehran
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said Iran’s decision to target Gulf Arab countries was a mistake that would push those states closer to the U.S., he said following a classified congressional briefing on Tuesday regarding Washington’s strikes.
He added that “Arab partners” would take a larger role in attacks on Tehran alongside American forces.
Iran’s foreign ministry calls U.S. threats ‘confession of war crimes’
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei said threats made by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth amounted to a “confession of war crimes.”
Hegseth had threatened that the U.S. and Israel would be “flying over Tehran…Iranians looking up only seeing U.S.-Israeli air power, death and destruction from the sky all day long”.
Writing on X, Baqaei said the statement was a “confession of war crime and crime against humanity,” adding that “only a Nazi mentality can unleash, in cold blood, death and destruction on another nation just to “satisfy the desires’ of his boss”.
IRGC claims it hit U.S. tanker in northern Gulf
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said its naval forces struck a U.S. tanker in the northern Gulf on Thursday, warning that military and commercial vessels linked to the U.S., Israel and supportive European countries would not be allowed to pass.
In remarks carried by Tasnim News Agency, the IRGC said such vessels would be targeted if detected.
Qatar facilitates return of citizens from Bahrain
Qatar’s Embassy in Bahrain has facilitated the return of several Qatari citizens and residents from Manama via the offshore port, as regional tensions continue to escalate.
In a statement posted early on Thursday, the embassy said the operation was carried out under the direction of Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Iran’s FM says U.S. will regret sinking its frigate
Iran’s foreign minister has warned the U.S. will “bitterly regret” sinking an Iranian frigate near Sri Lanka, condemning the attack as “an atrocity at sea”.
In a post on X early Thursday, Araghchi said the frigate IRIS Dena was struck in international waters without warning while sailing about 2,000 miles from Iran’s shores.
He said the vessel, carrying nearly 130 sailors, was a guest of India’s navy. More than 80 sailors were killed in the attack.
Qatar Airways to operate limited relief fights to support stranded passengers
Qatar Airways will start operating a limited number of relief flights starting from Thursday, March 5, to support passengers who are stranded in the country due to the current situation in Doha and the rest of the region.
The flights will include from Muscat to London Heathrow, Berlin, Copenhagen, Madrid, Rome, and Amsterdam, according to the airline’s announcement. Flights from Riyadh to Frankfurt will also operate.
“Passengers are kindly requested not to proceed to the airport unless they have received an official notification from Qatar Airways for these flights. Qatar Airways will contact affected passengers directly with their assigned flight details, travel arrangements and next steps,” it said in a statement.
Qatar Airways noted that its flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace. Operations will resume once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) announces the airspace’s reopening.
The airline will provide a further update on Friday, March 6, by 9:00am local time.
U.S. embassy in Qatar urges population to avoid its building
The U.S. Embassy in Qatar urged the population to avoid its building following the MOI’s announcement over the evacuation of people living in its vicinity as a precautionary measure.
MOI repeats stay at home directives
The MOI renewed its directive for the public to stay home and avoid going out except when absolutely necessary. The ministry said this directive aims to safeguard public safety.
