New Delhi: In a major move reflecting deepening unrest in the Middle East, US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that American personnel were being relocated from the region, warning that “it could be a dangerous place.” The decision comes as diplomatic efforts to curb Iran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program appear deadlocked.
Addressing reporters at the White House, Trump reaffirmed his long-standing stance against a nuclear-armed Iran. “We will never allow Iran to possess a nuclear weapon,” he declared, as tensions escalated over stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
US Orders Partial Evacuation of Baghdad Embassy
According to exclusive reports from Reuters, the United States has begun a partial evacuation of its embassy in Baghdad. Military families and non-essential diplomatic staff have been granted permission to leave not only Iraq but several other volatile locations across the Middle East.
Multiple US and Iraqi officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the precautionary move. The decision follows credible intelligence suggesting increased threats to American personnel and facilities in the region.
Iran Nuclear Talks at a Dangerous Crossroads
The backdrop to this latest US withdrawal is the impasse in nuclear negotiations. Despite months of backchannel diplomacy, Iran has refused to halt its enrichment of uranium beyond levels agreed upon in previous international accords.
Regional analysts warn that with neither side willing to compromise, the risk of a sudden escalation — including possible military action — has grown significantly. Tehran, for its part, accused Washington of “sabotaging peace” and reiterated its right to pursue what it claims is a peaceful nuclear program.
Mounting Pressure in the Gulf
Meanwhile, US allies in the Gulf, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have reportedly stepped up security around American installations. The Pentagon has also placed rapid response forces on heightened alert, signaling concern that the situation could deteriorate rapidly.
As the standoff deepens, global energy markets reacted nervously, with oil prices edging higher on fears of potential supply disruptions.