US diplomatic staff leave Iraq, Lebanon amid Iran conflict
The United States ordered the departure of personnel from its Iraq and Lebanon-based diplomatic missions, according to Al Arabiya English via AFP on June 22nd. The move came against a backdrop of US military strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities on June 22nd.
According to AFP, additional diplomatic staff were withdrawn from Iraq on June 21st and June 22nd as part of a continuing effort to reduce embassy presence in response to what an unnamed US official described as “regional tensions.”
Before Israel’s first attack on Iran, the US evacuated non-essential embassy personnel and their families from Baghdad, according to the BBC on June 12th. At the time, US officials did not confirm the exact reason for the decision but voiced concerns of Iran targeting their bases.
In Lebanon, the US embassy confirmed that the State Department on June 22nd instructed family members and non-emergency personnel of the US government to leave the country.
A US official said the departures from Iraq were taken “out of an abundance of caution” and form part of a broader effort to “streamline operations.” Despite the drawdowns, both the US embassy in Baghdad and its consulate are still operating.
The decision comes as President Donald Trump confirmed that US forces had bombed Iran’s key uranium enrichment sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, joining Israel in its military campaign against Tehran.
Armed factions in Iraq with ties to Tehran have signalled that Washington’s involvement in the war could prompt further escalation.
On June 22nd, the Iraqi government condemned the bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities, calling it a threat to regional and international stability.
“This military escalation constitutes a grave threat to peace and security in the Middle East,” Iraqi government spokesperson Basim Alawadi said. He warned that continued attacks could lead to “dangerous escalation” beyond national borders.
In Lebanon, where tensions also remain high, the US embassy cited an “unpredictable security situation” as the reason for the ordered departure. The country remains under a Level 4 “do not travel” advisory from the US State Department.
While Iran-backed Hezbollah has not announced direct military intervention, its Secretary-General Naim Qassem stated that the group would “act as we see fit.”
Al Arabiya English via AFP, BBC
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