US Orders Partial Embassy Evacuation in Iraq Amid Escalating Iran Tensions
The United States is evacuating non-essential personnel and their dependents from its embassy in Baghdad due to mounting security concerns, according to government sources.
While officials have not confirmed a specific trigger for the move, CBS News reports that Israeli preparations for a potential operation against Iran may have influenced the decision. The US fears possible Iranian retaliation targeting American assets in Iraq. In response, US officials have also restricted staff movements within Israel.
The development comes as diplomatic efforts around Iran’s nuclear program have stalled. Despite the tensions, US envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Muscat on Sunday, Axios reported.
A State Department official told the BBC that embassy staffing is being adjusted based on ongoing security assessments. The department also announced travel restrictions for US government personnel in Israel, limiting movement to Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva.
Speaking from Washington, President Donald Trump acknowledged the regional risk, saying Americans were advised to leave because “it could be a dangerous place.” He reiterated that the US will not allow Iran to develop a nuclear weapon and remains open to striking a diplomatic deal.
Earlier this week, President Trump had what was described as a “tense” phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a long-time advocate for a military approach to Iran.
Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has criticized Iran’s cooperation with nuclear inspections. Iran responded by accusing the agency of relying on falsified Israeli documents.
Amid the heightened tensions, Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned of retaliation against US bases if diplomacy fails and military action is taken. In parallel, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the voluntary departure of military families from multiple Middle Eastern countries, including Kuwait and Bahrain.
The Pentagon testified to Congress that Iran appears to be advancing toward a nuclear weapons capability, though Tehran insists its nuclear activities are for civilian energy purposes.
The UK’s Maritime Trade Operations branch warned that military tensions could impact regional shipping, while oil prices spiked over 4% following news of the evacuation.
Currently, approximately 2,500 US troops are stationed in Iraq. In a prior flashpoint, Iran launched missile strikes on Iraqi bases housing US forces in 2020, in retaliation for the killing of General Qasem Soleimani. While no American troops were killed, dozens suffered traumatic brain injuries.
