US allows fractional evacuation of Middle East embassies

(MENAFN)
The United States has authorized the evacuation of non-essential personnel and the families of diplomats and military staff from embassies and bases across the Middle East due to rising tensions with Iran.

The State Department confirmed on Wednesday that it is reducing its presence in Iraq, citing recent intelligence assessments. A US official also told Reuters that similar voluntary departures have been approved for embassies in Kuwait and Bahrain.

The Pentagon has granted permission for the families of military personnel stationed in the region to leave as well. A defense spokesperson emphasized that US Central Command (CENTCOM) remains in close contact with the State Department and regional allies to ensure readiness for any situation.

The move comes amid growing concerns that Israel might strike Iranian nuclear sites without coordinating with Washington. Though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office denied such reports as “fake news,” US intelligence officials remain wary.

President Donald Trump told the New York Post this week that he is “less confident” about reaching an agreement with Tehran, following five unsuccessful rounds of negotiations mediated by Oman. Trump has previously demanded the full dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program—a condition Iran has repeatedly rejected.

In response, Iran reiterated that it is not pursuing nuclear weapons and accused the US of fueling regional instability. Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that Iran would retaliate against all US bases in the region if attacked.

The latest developments come after Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal during his first term, accusing Tehran of breaching its commitments—an allegation Iran has denied while gradually expanding its nuclear activities.

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