Trending 
A US State Department official has confirmed the evacuation of diplomatic personnel from the American embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, following rising tensions with Iran.
In a statement to Anadolu Agency on Wednesday, the official said the decision was made after a review of security conditions. “President Trump is committed to keeping Americans safe, both at home and abroad. In keeping with that commitment, we are constantly assessing the appropriate personnel posture at all our embassies,” the statement read. “Based on our latest analysis, we decided to reduce our Mission in Iraq.”
It remains unclear whether the evacuation applies to all US diplomatic staff in the country.
The move follows fresh threats from Iran’s Defence Minister, Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh, who warned that all US bases in the region are within range of Iranian missiles and could be targeted if war erupts. Speaking to reporters in Tehran, Nasirzadeh stated: “If war is imposed on Iran, the US would undoubtedly suffer more losses than we do.”
He added that Iran would not hesitate to strike American bases in host countries, claiming that Iran’s military forces are fully equipped and prepared for any confrontation.
The remarks came just a day after General Michael Kurilla, head of US Central Command (CENTCOM), told Congress that he had presented President Donald Trump with a “range of options” to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Kurilla confirmed CENTCOM is ready to use force if necessary to halt Iran’s nuclear progress.
Tensions between the two nations remain high, despite ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations mediated by Oman. The key sticking point is Iran’s uranium enrichment programme. While Washington demands a complete halt, Iranian officials insist the programme is essential and non-negotiable.
The sixth round of nuclear talks is expected to take place in Muscat on Sunday. However, President Trump expressed scepticism over the likelihood of Iran agreeing to scale back its nuclear ambitions, signalling a hardened stance following escalating rhetoric.
