US to partially evacuate embassy in Iraq amid rising tensions with Iran
New Delhi, Jun 12: The United States has ordered the partial evacuation of its embassy in Baghdad, citing heightened security risks as tensions escalate with Iran, BBC reports. According to media reports quoting official sources, non-essential staff and their families will be withdrawn from the diplomatic mission. While no specific incident was cited, officials indicated the move comes amid concerns over potential Iranian retaliation, particularly against US interests in Iraq. BBC reported that on Wednesday, CBS, citing officials familiar with the matter, reported that the US had been informed of Israel’s readiness to launch an operation against Iran. This development reportedly contributed to Washington's decision to urge some Americans to leave the region.
The diplomatic shift comes as efforts to revive nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran appear to have stalled. Despite the rising tensions, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is still scheduled to meet with Iranian officials on Sunday for a sixth round of talks. A spokesperson for the US State Department told the BBC: "We are constantly assessing the appropriate personnel posture at all our embassies. Based on our latest analysis, we decided to reduce the footprint of our mission in Iraq."
President Donald Trump addressed the situation during an appearance at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, warning that the region "could be a dangerous place" and reiterating his administration’s opposition to Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. He added that he was increasingly skeptical of Tehran's willingness to limit uranium enrichment.
Iran, for its part, maintains that its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes. However, its Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that Iran would retaliate against US bases in the region if negotiations fail and military action is taken. The Pentagon, testifying before Congress on Wednesday, said there were “plenty of indications” suggesting Iran could be advancing toward a capability resembling a nuclear weapon. In addition to the embassy evacuation, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has approved the voluntary departure of American military families from several countries in the Middle East, including Kuwait and Bahrain, Reuters reported. Markets responded swiftly to the unfolding situation, with global oil prices rising more than 4% amid fears that regional insecurity could threaten supply routes. Currently, about 2,500 US troops remain stationed in Iraq, according to the US Department of Defence.
