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BAGHDAD — The U.S. State Department has ordered the departure of embassy personnel family members and non-essential staff from its diplomatic missions in c. The decision, issued late Tuesday, comes amid mounting tensions in the region following stalled negotiations with Iran and increased security threats to American personnel.
Security Precaution Amid Escalating Regional Risks
Officials confirmed that the reduction in embassy staffing affects both the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and the U.S. Consulate in Erbil. The order follows a series of warnings issued by U.S. intelligence about potential threats to American interests in the region, including attacks from Iran-backed militias operating in Iraq.
A State Department spokesperson stated, “The safety and security of U.S. government personnel and citizens is our highest priority. This decision reflects an evolving security environment, not a permanent change in our commitment to Iraq.”
Background: Rising Strain with Iran
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have intensified over the past month following the breakdown of nuclear negotiations and the introduction of new U.S. tariffs targeting Iranian trade and technology sectors. Iranian officials have responded with threats to retaliate against U.S. interests in the Middle East.
Defense analysts point to increased drone and rocket attacks by proxy groups in Iraq as a sign of deepening instability. Baghdad’s Green Zone—home to numerous embassies and government offices—has come under sporadic fire in recent weeks.
U.S. Forces Remain in Place
Although diplomatic personnel are being scaled back, Pentagon officials confirmed that U.S. military forces currently stationed in Iraq, estimated at around 2,500, will remain operational. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized voluntary departures for military families in the region but stressed that combat readiness has not been compromised.
“We are not withdrawing from Iraq,” Hegseth said. “Our forces are continuing their mission to assist Iraqi partners in the fight against terrorism, and we remain committed to regional stability.”
Public and Diplomatic Reaction
Iraqi officials expressed concern over the implications of the U.S. drawdown. One senior official in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the move was understood as a temporary safety measure, but warned that a prolonged U.S. absence from diplomatic channels could embolden extremist factions.
Locally, residents around Baghdad’s fortified zone have reported increased military patrols and road closures. “There is more tension than usual,” said a shopkeeper near the Green Zone. “People are worried that something bigger might happen.”
Impact on Services and Movement
As of Wednesday, the U.S. embassy has suspended routine visa services and public appointments. U.S. citizens in Iraq have been advised to limit movement, remain aware of their surroundings, and maintain communication with the embassy’s security updates.
The order does not apply to all staff. Ambassador Matthew Tueller remains in Baghdad with a core team of diplomats and security personnel to ensure that essential operations continue.
A new round of nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran is reportedly scheduled to take place in Oman this weekend. While officials hope diplomacy can ease tensions, the current security posture in Iraq suggests that U.S. planners are preparing for possible escalation.
Analysts say the coming weeks will be critical. If threats from Iran-backed militias intensify, the U.S. could further reduce its diplomatic footprint or bolster military deployments in the region.
