The United States is initiating a partial evacuation of its embassy in Iraq, accompanied by the voluntary departure of military dependents from various locations across the Middle East. This decision comes in response to increased security concerns in the region, according to both US and Iraqi officials.
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While the specific security threats prompting this evacuation have not been detailed, reports of potential evacuations have resulted in a notable rise in oil prices, climbing over 4%. “The State Department regularly reviews the status of American personnel abroad, and this action follows a recent assessment,” remarked White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly in a statement to Reuters, though she did not elaborate further.
A White House representative confirmed that President Donald Trump is informed of this development.
In a related context, the situation remains volatile, particularly regarding Iran. Mr. Trump has voiced concerns about the country’s nuclear program, indicating he is losing faith in negotiations aimed at curbing uranium enrichment, a crucial demand from the United States. “We have to be prepared for any eventuality, especially if talks stall,” he asserted.
Meanwhile, Iranian Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh has warned of potential retaliation against US bases in the region should Iran face military actions. The United States maintains a significant military presence throughout this vital oil-producing area, with bases in Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has authorized the voluntary departure of family members of military personnel, primarily affecting those stationed in Bahrain, where most of them reside. “The State Department plans to facilitate an ordered departure for the US embassy in Baghdad, aiming to utilize commercial options. However, the US military remains ready to assist if needed,” noted a US official.
Despite these developments, Iraq’s state news agency reported no current security threats warranting an evacuation. The US embassy in Kuwait underscored that operations there remain unchanged and fully functional. Additionally, Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US military facility in the Middle East, reports no alterations in its operational status.
The rise in oil prices, with futures increasing by $3, follows reports of the Baghdad evacuation, positioning Brent crude futures at $69.18 per barrel. In light of heightened tensions, Britain’s maritime agency has cautioned that increased military activity might disrupt shipping in critical maritime routes. Vessels traversing the Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Straits of Hormuz have been advised to exercise caution.
Iraq serves as a unique regional partner to both the United States and Iran, hosting approximately 2,500 US troops amid complex local dynamics influenced by Iran-backed factions within its security apparatus. Tensions in Iraq have intensified since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, culminating in repeated assaults on US troops by Iran-aligned militant groups, albeit these attacks have lessened since last year.
In the past year, direct confrontations between Israel and Iran became unprecedented, featuring missile exchanges and drone attacks over Iraqi airspace. Israel has proactively targeted Iran-linked groups across the region, including those operating in Iraq and Syria.
As the next round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States approaches, expectations revolve around Iran submitting a counter-proposal after dismissing a previous offer from the US. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Iran’s UN mission declared, “Threats of ‘overwhelming force’ won’t change facts: Iran is not seeking a nuclear weapon, and US militarism only fuels instability.” This message appears to respond to General Michael Kurilla of US Central Command, who mentioned providing the president with diverse options to address concerns surrounding a nuclear-armed Iran.
For now, the unfolding scenario continues to call for vigilance and strategic engagement from all parties involved.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
