The U.S. State Department has ordered the evacuation of non-essential diplomatic staff from American embassies in Iraq and Lebanon, citing rising regional instability and concerns over potential threats.
The directive follows increased military activity in the Middle East, particularly involving Israel, Iran, and recent U.S. airstrikes. Officials described the move as a precautionary step to protect personnel amid a volatile security environment.
“This measure is being taken out of an abundance of caution due to the evolving threat landscape,” a senior State Department official said on Sunday. “We are actively monitoring the situation and are prepared to adjust our posture as necessary.”
While the U.S. embassies in Baghdad and Beirut will remain operational, the reduction in staffing could limit services. U.S. citizens in both countries have been urged to stay vigilant, avoid public gatherings, and maintain close contact with the embassies for updates.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon confirmed that American forces in the region have increased security measures, anticipating possible responses from Iranian-backed militia groups.
The decision reflects broader concerns within the Biden administration that ongoing conflict between regional powers could destabilize already fragile states like Iraq and Lebanon, posing heightened risks to U.S. personnel and interests.
Diplomatic sources indicated that further evacuations or security changes remain possible depending on developments in the region.