Doha: The US Embassy in Qatar announced on Sunday a reduction in operations, maintaining only its emergency personnel, as tensions escalate throughout the Middle East.

According to Anadolu Agency, the embassy has issued a statement advising American citizens in Qatar to remain vigilant and prepared to 'duck and cover in a secure location' should local authorities issue an alert. The statement emphasizes caution, warning that the Iranian government and its proxies might target Americans in retaliation for recent US strikes against Iran.

The heightened alert follows a joint air offensive by the US and Israel on February 28, which has resulted in the deaths of over 1,340 individuals, including Iran's then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In response, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes against Israel and neighboring regions, including Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military installations.