The United States and the United Kingdom are partially withdrawing personnel from the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar amid rising tensions with Iran over its crackdown on anti-government protests.

Officials described the move as a “precautionary measure” as US President Donald Trump considers possible actions against Tehran. Some UK staff are also reported to be leaving the base. A Qatari government statement said the steps were being taken “in response to current regional tensions.”

Al-Udeid, the largest US military base in the Middle East, hosts about 10,000 US personnel and roughly 100 from the UK. It is unclear how many are departing. A UK Ministry of Defence spokesperson declined to comment, citing operational security.

Rights groups report that over 2,400 protesters have been killed in Iran since the unrest began in late December, with more than 18,400 arrests. The protests initially erupted over a collapsing currency and rising living costs and have grown into widespread demands for political change.

Iran’s government has warned that any US military action would make Israeli and US military and shipping facilities in the region legitimate targets. Meanwhile, the US has advised its citizens in the Middle East to exercise increased caution and limit travel to military sites.

Trump has repeatedly threatened “very strong action” if Iran executes protesters, while also stating that Iranian leaders have sought negotiations.

With inputs from BBC