The United States is partially evacuating its embassy in Iraq for security reasons amid threats from Iran to target American bases in the Middle East in the event of a conflict.
“Based on our latest assessment, we have decided to reduce our mission footprint in Iraq,” a US official who wished to remain anonymous stated.
The evacuation is expected to occur using commercial flights, with the possibility of military assistance if necessary. Associated Press reports that embassy staff and their families in Bahrain and Kuwait may also be asked to leave.
On Wednesday, Iran warned it would target US military bases in the Middle East if nuclear negotiations with the United States result in conflict.
“If negotiations fail and a conflict is imposed on us, the other side will certainly suffer more losses than we do,” Iranian Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh said. “Their bases are within our reach,” and “the United States will have to leave the region,” he added.
The United States maintains many military bases near Iran, the largest of which is in Qatar, home to the US Central Command headquarters for the Middle East.
