The U.S. State Department has ordered the partial evacuation of non-essential personnel from its embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, due to heightened security risks stemming from escalating tensions with Iran.
The move follows warnings from Iran’s Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh, who threatened to target U.S. bases in the region if nuclear negotiations fail or conflict arises.
The decision comes as U.S.-Iran talks over Iran’s nuclear program have reached an impasse, with President Donald Trump expressing growing pessimism about reaching a deal. The U.S. has also authorized the voluntary departure of military dependents from locations across the Middle East, including Bahrain and Kuwait.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency issued a warning about potential military escalation impacting shipping in the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices surged nearly 4% on news of the evacuation, reflecting fears of regional instability.
