Liverpool Family Shelters Amid Rising Tensions in Qatar

Joel Richards, a 34-year-old father from Liverpool living in Doha, Qatar, described a day filled with anxiety as he and his family sheltered at home amid escalating regional tensions. On February 28, 2024, Qatar’s Defence Ministry reported intercepting several missiles believed to be heading towards the Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest US military installation in the region. This followed a pre-emptive strike by US and Israeli forces against Iran, aimed at thwarting its alleged nuclear ambitions.

As the situation deteriorated, Joel recounted the unnerving sounds that filled their apartment. “When we heard bangs, we felt the windows and doors shake,” he said. “We sheltered in the hallway where there are no windows nearby to ensure our baby daughter, who is only ten months old, was safe.”

Emergency Alerts and Community Support

The tension escalated early in the morning when Joel and his wife saw warnings from the British Embassy on social media. The embassy advised British nationals of a heightened risk of regional conflict and urged them to remain cautious. “We woke up just before eight o’clock and immediately recognized the seriousness of the situation,” he noted.

As the day progressed, the US embassy advised its citizens to stay indoors, followed by similar warnings from the Irish and British embassies. By 11:00 AM local time, British nationals were instructed to seek shelter and remain indoors until further notice.

Joel’s experience is not entirely new. In September 2023, he and his wife encountered a similar situation when Israel conducted a strike against Hamas leaders in Doha. “That incident lasted a couple of hours and ended relatively quickly,” he reflected. “This time, it has been ongoing for nearly five hours, and it’s unclear when normalcy will return.”

Keeping In Touch with Home

Despite the unsettling circumstances, Joel expressed gratitude for the support of the expatriate community in Doha, particularly among fellow Scousers. “We’ve been checking in with friends and making sure everyone is okay,” he said. “At the moment, we’re coping as best we can.”

Maintaining contact with family back in the UK has also been a priority. Initially uncertain about how much attention the events were receiving back home, Joel later realized the situation had garnered significant media coverage. He reassured friends and family of their safety, emphasizing the importance of staying connected during trying times.

This experience of sheltering from the escalating conflict has left a deep impression on Joel and his family. As they await further updates, they remain hopeful for a return to normal life in Doha, while prioritizing the safety of their loved ones. The resilience of community ties and the support network they have built will play a crucial role in navigating the challenges ahead.