The United States has decided to partially evacuate its embassy in Iraq in light of rising tensions with Iran.

  The United States has decided to partially evacuate its embassy in Iraq in light of rising tensions with Iran.

BBC LIVE

The United States has decided to partially evacuate its embassy in Iraq due to escalating tensions with Iran. Non-essential staff and their families are being recalled, while the State Department has authorized voluntary evacuation for non-essential personnel and their families from embassies in Bahrain and Kuwait. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has approved the voluntary evacuation of military dependents across the Middle East, particularly from Bahrain. These measures follow failed nuclear talks with Iran, with U.S. officials citing concerns about Iran’s advancing nuclear program and potential attacks on U.S. installations in Iraq, possibly in response to Israeli military action against Iran. Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that Tehran would target U.S. bases in the region if the conflict escalates. The UK’s Maritime Trade Operations issued a warning about increased military risks in the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Strait of Hormuz, and oil prices surged by more than 4% due to fears of regional instability. Approximately 2,500 U.S. troops remain in Iraq.