"Threat of Iranian Attacks": US Urgently Evacuates Diplomats from the Middle East
On October 24, the United States began the urgent evacuation of some of its diplomats and their families from countries in the Middle East. The evacuation was announced following intelligence reports that Iran was preparing large-scale attacks on U.S. personnel.
An internal memo addressed to Secretary of State Mark Rubio indicates a significant increase in the threat to U.S. officials in the region, CNN reports.
Fears of escalation and statements about military action
U.S. intelligence has determined that Iran’s preparations for strikes have reached an advanced stage not only in the Middle East but also in a number of other countries.
Staff reductions have affected the embassy in Riyadh, the consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran, as well as diplomatic missions in the UAE, Lebanon, Qatar, and Jordan.
According to Axios sources, there is a threat of expanded attacks by the Iran-backed Yemeni Houthis. Tensions are escalating due to the possible resumption of hostilities against Tehran by Washington and Jerusalem.
For his part, Donald Trump, during a speech in Florida, announced the likely resumption of military operations.
“We may carry out another small ‘Epic Rage’ operation, or the Iranians may agree to a deal,”
said Donald Trump.
Earlier, NBC News reported on the “ reduction of the military presence ” and personnel at bases in Jordan, Qatar, and Kuwait. Tensions in the region escalated following a strike by Yemeni Houthis on a Saudi airport in early October, which resulted in casualties.
At the same time, the war against Iran has already cost the U.S. nearly $38 billion over five months and depleted ammunition stocks, which could take at least five years to replenish.