US calls back selected diplomats from Middle East amid possible Israeli attack on Iran
Amid stalled nuclear talks with Iran, rising Israeli strike threats spur US evacuations and heightened security across key Middle East posts
WASHINGTON (MNTV) — The U.S. has begun evacuating non-essential personnel from several diplomatic missions across the Middle East, responding to heightened tensions and possible military conflict between Israel and Iran.
On Wednesday, the State and Defense departments coordinated voluntary and ordered departures from US embassies in Iraq, Bahrain, and Kuwait, as well as the consulate in Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan.
The US Embassy in Israel also issued a travel restriction advisory, limiting movements of government employees and their families to Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved voluntary departure for military dependents across the region, citing potential security risks. CENTCOM said it is coordinating with the State Department and regional allies to maintain readiness for any developments.
According to CBS News, US intelligence suggests that Israel has completed preparations for potential strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
While Washington has not committed to join any such operation, officials indicated the US may support Israel with intelligence and aerial refueling if needed.
CNN reported that President Donald Trump, in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this week, urged restraint and asked Netanyahu to stop public discussion about military options against Iran.
However, Israeli officials have expressed frustration over the stalled nuclear talks, accusing Iran of buying time.
Trump, in a recent interview, voiced growing doubts about reaching a nuclear agreement with Tehran, saying, “I’m much less confident of a deal being made.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh issued a strong warning, saying that all US bases in the region would be within range if conflict erupts.
The UK’s Maritime Trade Operations agency also issued a regional advisory, warning commercial vessels of heightened risk in the Gulf of Oman, Arabian Gulf, and Strait of Hormuz due to potential military escalation.
The sudden security measures, including the last-minute postponement of CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Kurilla’s Senate testimony, have added to speculation that a military confrontation may be imminent.
Former US officials and diplomats noted that such evacuation orders are typically issued when a significant escalation is expected.
“This is what we would do if we or Israel were about to go kinetic,” one former official told Al-Monitor, reinforcing concerns that diplomatic and military lines are rapidly converging.
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