By Jones Gadama
The United States has initiated preparations for evacuating its embassies and other diplomatic sites in the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran.
This move comes after Iran’s Defense Minister, Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh, warned that Tehran would target US military bases in the region if tensions continue to rise or if nuclear talks between the two countries collapse.
US President Donald Trump said the personnel were being moved out because “it could be a dangerous place,” adding that the United States would not allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.
The US has authorized the voluntary departure of non-essential staff and eligible family members from its embassy in Baghdad, as well as diplomatic missions in Bahrain and Kuwait.
The partial evacuation has already had economic ripple effects, with global oil prices rising by more than four percent on the news. The US move follows an apparent deadlock in nuclear talks with Tehran, raising fears of possible conflict.
Iranian Defence Ministry officials have warned that US military assets in the region would be targeted if nuclear negotiations fail and a confrontation ensues.
US intelligence assessments indicate that Israel has been preparing for a possible strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, adding further uncertainty to an already volatile situation. The situation remains tense, with the potential for escalation high.
The US has a significant military presence in the Middle East, with bases in Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.
The US Embassy in Baghdad is at the center of the drawdown, with the State Department authorizing the departure of staff not deemed critical to ongoing operations. US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth has permitted the departure of military dependents stationed across the region.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations has also issued an advisory warning mariners about increased military activity in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman.