Washington: US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that American personnel are being evacuated from various locations in the Middle East due to escalating tensions with Iran, stating that "it could be a dangerous place."
According to Anadolu Agency, the State Department has authorized the departure of nonessential personnel from Iraq, following emergency assessments at embassies within striking distance of Iranian assets across the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Northern Africa. US intelligence officials are increasingly concerned about potential Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities without Washington's consent.
President Trump, speaking to reporters before attending the opening night of Les Miserables at the Kennedy Center, acknowledged the withdrawal while maintaining a firm stance on Iran's nuclear ambitions. "Well, they are being moved out because it could be a dangerous place. We'll see what happens. We've given notice to move out," he said.
Pressed further about reducing regional tensions, Trump reiterated his position on Iran's nuclear program. "They can't have a nuclear weapon. Very simple. They can't have a nuclear weapon. We're not going to allow that," he stated.
A State Department official told Anadolu that "President Trump is committed to keeping Americans safe, both at home and abroad." The official explained, "Based on our latest analysis, we decided to reduce our mission in Iraq." However, the extent of the evacuation and whether it includes all US diplomatic staff remains unclear.
The announcement follows a statement by Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh, who threatened to target US bases in the region if a conflict erupts between the two countries over Tehran's nuclear program. Nasirzadeh warned that all US bases in the region are within the reach of Iranian missiles and that Iran will "target them in their host countries without hesitation." His threat came a day after Gen. Michael Kurilla, commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), testified before Congress, saying he presented a "range of options" to Trump to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.