US Embassy in Qatar issues ‘shelter-in-place’ order after Israel's strike in Doha

Israel conducted a military strike in central Doha, leading the US Embassy to issue a shelter-in-place order for its staff.

Updated on: Sep 9, 2025, 20:15:03 IST

By Shweta Kukreti

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Israel declared it has carried out a military strike in central Doha on Tuesday, prompting the US Embassy in Qatar to advise all staff and citizens to remain indoors.

US Embassy in Qatar announced that a shelter-in-place order has been implemented for the facilities of the US Embassy. (AP)

Taking to X, US Embassy in Qatar announced that a shelter-in-place order has been implemented for the facilities of the US Embassy.

“We have seen reports of missile strikes occurring in Doha. The U.S. Embassy has instituted a shelter-in-place order for their facilities. U.S. citizens are advised to shelter-in-place and monitor @USEmbassyDoha social media for updates,” the embassy wrote on X.

Israel launches strike against Hamas' senior leadership in Doha

Israel launched strikes on Hamas' top leadership in the Qatari capital, Doha, on Tuesday, stated a US official briefed on the situation, as per NBC News.

The city, where Hamas maintains its headquarters outside of Gaza, was rocked by loud explosions. Israel's multifront struggle in the region has escalated significantly with the hit on the US ally and top mediator in international issues, the latest being between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

According to a statement posted on X, the Israel Defense Forces and the intelligence agency Shin Bet had executed “a precise strike targeting the senior leadership of the Hamas terrorist organization.”

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Qatar denounces ‘cowardly Israeli attack’

Without specifically mentioning Doha, the Qatari government denounced what it described as a “cowardly Israeli attack” on Hamas' headquarters. Meanwhile, witnesses reported hearing loud explosions in the capital and seeing smoke rising above the city.

“This criminal assault constitutes a blatant violation of all international laws and norms, and poses a serious threat to the security and safety of Qataris and residents in Qatar,” the Qatari Government stated in a statement.

It further said that “it will not tolerate this reckless and irresponsible Israeli behavior, which continuously undermines the region’s security, or any action targeting its security and sovereignty.”

NYDP issues statement

The New York Police Department (NYDP) stated it was monitoring the situation “out of an abundance of caution”.

The NYDP is working with the federal partners and allocating more “resources to religious, cultural, and diplomatic” locations around New York City.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shweta Kukreti
Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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