Written by Lisa Murimi
The United States has ordered the evacuation of non-essential embassy personnel and their dependents from Baghdad, citing heightened security concerns, according to government sources.
While officials did not specify the exact cause, CBS News reported that the move follows intelligence suggesting Israel is preparing a possible military operation against Iran.
US officials said they anticipate that Iran could retaliate against American interests in Iraq, prompting precautionary measures.
The evacuation comes as diplomatic efforts over Iran’s nuclear program appear to have stalled.
However, US envoy Steve Witkoff is still scheduled to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Muscat on Sunday, in what could be a last-ditch attempt to de-escalate rising tensions.
“We are constantly assessing the appropriate personnel posture at all our embassies,” a State Department official told the BBC.
“Based on our latest analysis, we decided to reduce the footprint of our mission in Iraq.”
President Donald Trump, speaking in Washington, reiterated the US position: “We’re not going to allow Iran to develop a nuclear weapon.”
Earlier this week, Trump held a reportedly tense phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who continues to advocate for a military approach toward Tehran.
The Pentagon also approved voluntary departures of US military families across the Middle East, including in Bahrain and Kuwait.
Oil prices surged more than 4% following the news, amid fears of regional conflict disrupting supply chains.
About 2,500 American troops are currently stationed in Iraq.
