Qatar says it dismantled two IRGC-linked cells, arrests 10 suspects

Qatari authorities announced late Tuesday that state security units have successfully dismantled two clandestine cells linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that were operating within the country's borders. According to a report by the state-run Qatar News Agency (QNA), ten suspects were arrested following extensive surveillance operations targeting the networks.

Espionage and sabotage missions detailed

The QNA report revealed that seven of the arrested suspects were assigned espionage missions to gather intelligence on "vital and military facilities" throughout Qatar. The remaining three individuals were tasked with carrying out sabotage operations and had received specialized training in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to execute their missions. Authorities also seized locations and coordinates of sensitive facilities, along with communication devices and technological equipment used by the cells.

Security alert issued

Following the operation, Qatari authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to relevant agencies. The announcement comes amid heightened regional tensions following Saturday's US-Israeli large-scale attacks on Iran, which have killed nearly 800 people including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and dozens of senior military commanders.

Regional context

The dismantling of IRGC-linked cells in Qatar adds another dimension to the widening conflict, as Iran has been conducting drone and missile strikes targeting Gulf countries hosting US military assets. Qatar, which hosts the massive Al Udeid Air Base housing US Central Command's forward headquarters, has found itself increasingly drawn into the confrontation despite efforts to maintain diplomatic balance. The operation demonstrates both Iranian efforts to project power through clandestine networks and Gulf states' determination to counter such activities.