US evacuates +700 from Iraqi Embassy as Iran-Israel tensions mount
Shafaq News/ Over 700 Americans have been evacuated from the US Embassy in Baghdad, an Iraqi security source told Shafaq News on Thursday, as Washington ramps up precautionary measures in response to growing instability in the Middle East.
The source explained that the departures—mostly diplomats, staff, and nationals—continued into early Thursday, with expectations that senior US military figures could also be pulled out soon.
As part of the US measures, earlier reports indicated that the US is preparing a partial evacuation of its embassy in Iraq. A US Defense official told Shafaq News that CENTCOM continues to monitor the situation, prioritizing the safety of American service members and their families.
Washington has also begun relocating personnel across several missions in the region. President Donald Trump confirmed the precautionary moves, citing security risks. 'It could be a dangerous place,' he noted.
The evacuation comes amid intensified Israeli preparations for a possible military strike on Iran, according to US intelligence. A 'friendly' regional state had warned Tehran of a potential Israeli strike, a senior Iranian official revealed to Reuters on Thursday.
Iranian officials responded with sharp rhetoric. Quds Force Commander General Esmail Qaani said Iran does not seek war but warned that 'no one dares to start one against us.' Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh cautioned that US forces in the region would become targets. 'Their presence would become unsustainable in host countries,' he said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Shafaq News
2 hours ago
- Shafaq News
Iran-Israel strands citizens abroad: KRG addresses flight chaos
Shafaq News/ On Friday, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) established an emergency joint committee to assist Kurdish citizens stranded abroad after Iraq closed its airspace, suspending all inbound and outbound flights. In a statement, the Department of Foreign Relations confirmed the committee, including representatives from both the Department and the Ministry of Interior, maintains contact with affected citizens and foreign authorities, emphasizing its focus on securing the safety of stranded individuals and facilitating their return. The sudden airspace closure has left many travelers stranded, especially in Istanbul, where numerous Kurdish passengers had been waiting to connect to flights bound for the Kurdistan Region. Additionally, Hajj pilgrims returning through Amman have faced disruptions caused by flight delays and cancellations. Earlier today, Karwan Stuni, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Region's Hajj and Umrah Commission, confirmed that the return of pilgrims from Saudi Arabia has been interrupted due to escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Speaking to Shafaq News, Stuni indicated that should the current conditions continue, authorities may resort to overland routes to bring pilgrims back to the Region.
Shafaq News
2 hours ago
- Shafaq News
Iraq-Iran borders swamped as citizens flee escalating conflict
Shafaq News/ On Friday, Iraqi border crossings with Iran experienced a sharp rise in returning citizens amid escalating security tensions and ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian cities and facilities since early morning. Eyewitnesses and travelers arriving from Iran reported heavy crowds at crossings, including Al-Munthiriya in Diyala Province and Bashmakh in al-Sulaymaniyah Province, where thousands streamed into Iraq. Most arrivals were students enrolled at Iranian universities, alongside patients and tourists. The overwhelming numbers caused long waits at the crossings, with many still awaiting permission to enter Iraqi territory. Among those returning, concerns grew that crossings could close or face new restrictions if hostilities intensify, leading to calls for Iraqi authorities to accelerate entry procedures. This surge followed unprecedented Israeli airstrikes targeting key sites in Tehran and other Iranian cities, which triggered a significant Iranian missile response on Tel Aviv.
Shafaq News
3 hours ago
- Shafaq News
Security Council convenes as Iran-Israel conflict escalates
Shafaq News/ On Friday, the United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session at Iran's request, following Israeli airstrikes that struck multiple locations inside Iranian territory. Earlier today, Iran's state media reported that its permanent mission to the United Nations had submitted an urgent letter to the Council, calling for condemnation of the Israeli attacks and requesting an immediate session. The strikes began at dawn, as Israel launched what it described as Rising Lion Operation, targeting a series of military and nuclear facilities across Iran. Sites hit included Natanz, Fordow, Tehran, Hamedan, and East Azerbaijan province. Iranian media confirmed the deaths of several senior commanders from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), along with nuclear scientists and civilians. The large-scale assault also triggered a wave of international reactions, ranging from strong condemnation to calls for restraint and the revival of diplomatic engagement. As regional tensions escalated, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei warned that Israel would face 'severe punishment' in response. Shortly afterward, Iran's official news agency confirmed the launch of Tehran's counterstrike, which has been designated The Severe Punishment. According to the IRGC, three waves of missiles—each comprising roughly 100 rockets—have so far been fired toward multiple Israeli military installations and airbases.
