Washington, June 12(HS): The U.S. has recalled diplomats, military officials, and their families from Iraq, Bahrain, and Kuwait due to rising tensions with Iran. The State and Defense Departments initiated the departure of non-essential personnel from various Middle Eastern locations. A defense official noted that the U.S. Central Command is monitoring the situation, expressing concerns about the safety of embassy staff in light of escalating tensions. President Trump addressed reporters regarding the tensions, stating they would assess the situation further. The change in U.S. policy is linked to increased confrontations between Iran and Israel while the Trump administration seeks a nuclear agreement with Iran.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth approved the voluntary departure of military dependents, and U.S. Central Command Commander General Michael Kurilla postponed Senate testimony amid these developments. The State Department is preparing to recall non-essential personnel from embassies in the affected countries and from the U.S. consulate in Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan. An Iraqi government official mentioned that personnel movement is unrelated to domestic security. A U.S. State Department representative reaffirmed President Trump’s commitment to ensuring American safety at home and abroad, stating that they are continually evaluating the status of personnel at embassies. The U.S. also aims to downsize its mission in Iraq, indicating potential delays in negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear ambitions.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar