Richard Keys has been taken off air by beIN Sports following US strikes on Iran, as the UK government warned British nationals in the Middle East to 'take immediate shelter'. The presenter, based in Qatar for 13 years, announced on X that he would not host a show on Saturday, citing the 'lively' situation and criticising Donald Trump.
Keys said: 'Thank you all for your messages. It was a bit lively earlier. I don’t have space to express my feelings about that idiot Trump. No show today. You’ll be in the capable hands of our colleagues in London. Thoughts & prayers for everyone in our region. Ramadan Kareem.'
The UK Foreign Office issued a warning to British nationals in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates: 'Due to reported missile attacks, British nationals in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates should immediately shelter in place. Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities.'
Explosions have been reported in the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait, following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Iran has retaliated with missile attacks on Israel and Qatar, among other targets. Iran's security council vowed a 'crushing' response, stating the 'enemy' wrongly assumed Iran would 'surrender to their petty demands through such cowardly actions.'
US President Donald Trump ordered the bombing despite ongoing nuclear talks, saying he was not 'thrilled' with negotiations. He pledged to 'destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground' and 'annihilate their Navy'. The UK Government said its priority was 'the safety of UK nationals' and that it had bolstered defensive capabilities in the region, adding: 'We do not want to see further escalation into a wider regional conflict.'
Several airlines, including WizzAir, Qatar Airways and Virgin Atlantic, have cancelled flights to the region. WizzAir suspended flights to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman until 7 March, while Qatar Airways halted services due to airspace closure. British Airways cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain until 3 March.
