Daijiworld Media Network- Washington

Washington, Jun 12: In a clear sign of mounting instability in the Middle East, the United States has initiated a partial evacuation of its diplomatic and military personnel from several countries in the region, including Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.

According to a statement from US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has authorised the voluntary departure of military dependants amid increasing security threats. The US State Department also ordered all nonessential personnel to leave the US Embassy in Baghdad, citing a commitment to ensuring the safety of American citizens abroad.

US President Donald Trump, addressing the media on Wednesday evening, confirmed the decision. “The region could be a dangerous place. We’ve given notice to move out, and we’ll see what happens,” he said, adding sternly, “Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon—very simple. We’re not going to allow that.”

The developments come as US-Iran nuclear negotiations appear to have stalled, leading to heightened tensions. In a further indication of rising hostilities, CBS News reported that Israel is “fully ready” to launch an attack on Iran, and US officials are bracing for a potential retaliatory strike by Tehran, especially targeting American assets in neighbouring Iraq.

While CENTCOM maintains it is closely monitoring the situation, the evacuation is being seen as a precautionary step amid intelligence reports suggesting growing threats to US personnel in the volatile region.

With diplomatic talks faltering and fears of direct military confrontation escalating, the geopolitical temperature in the Middle East appears poised for further escalation in the coming days.