The United States is relocating non-essential diplomatic personnel from several Middle Eastern countries, including Iraq, as tensions with Iran escalate over the stalled nuclear negotiations, President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday evening.
Speaking to reporters at the Kennedy Center, Trump stated, “They are being moved out because it could be a dangerous place, and we’ll see what happens. We’ve given notice to move out.”
The U.S. State Department later issued a statement citing the need to protect American lives abroad. “President Trump is committed to keeping Americans safe, both at home and abroad,” the statement read. “Based on our latest analysis, we decided to reduce our Mission in Iraq.” Nonessential personnel and their families are also authorized to leave U.S. diplomatic posts in Bahrain and Kuwait.
While U.S. officials did not provide specifics on the threats prompting the move, an unnamed Iraqi government source told the state-run Iraqi News Agency that no specific local threat had been detected. The source emphasized that the evacuation is part of a broader U.S. reassessment of its diplomatic posture across the region and “does not only concern Iraq.”
The U.S. Central Command, responsible for American military operations in the Middle East, confirmed that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved the voluntary departure of military dependents. “We are monitoring the developing tension and remain in a constant state of readiness,” said the statement. Defense officials have clarified that no U.S. troops are currently being ordered to evacuate.
This move follows reports that embassies within range of Iran, including those in Europe and North Africa, were instructed to activate emergency response committees and report back on their security measures. The decision comes as nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran appear to have stalled, with Trump expressing growing skepticism. “They can’t have a nuclear weapon—we’re not going to allow that,” he said Wednesday.
Amid the diplomatic strain, both Iran and Israel have made aggressive statements. Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that U.S. military bases could be targeted if conflict escalates. Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly preparing potential strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, according to U.S. intelligence sources cited by CBS and NBC.
Oman’s Foreign Minister confirmed on Wednesday that the next round of nuclear talks is still scheduled for Sunday in Muscat, though concerns of a postponement remain.
A U.K. maritime agency also issued a public warning to vessels operating in the region, citing “increased tensions” that could result in military conflict and impact maritime safety.
While officials stress that no military action is imminent, analysts suggest that the U.S. drawdown may serve as a strategic signal. “It shows the risk is real, and that the U.S. is preparing,” said Daniel Shapiro, former U.S. ambassador to Israel, adding that the move could also strengthen America’s position in ongoing talks.
