While US President Donald Trump speaks of launching fresh attacks on Iran, the US military is quietly withdrawing troops from various bases across the Middle East. Simultaneously, Washington has ordered the evacuation of personnel from several diplomatic missions in the region. This information was reported by NBC News on Wednesday.
The report notes that these current moves mirror the preparations made by the Pentagon and the US State Department prior to the initial round of US-Israeli attacks on Iran in February. The report cites two US officials and two other individuals familiar with the matter.
According to the report, US troops stationed in Jordan, Qatar, and Kuwait are being relocated. However, Washington plans to maintain a limited number of personnel at these bases, including those responsible for air defense and security.
Ahead of the attacks on Iran on February 28, the Pentagon had withdrawn a large number of US troops from vulnerable bases to protect them against potential Iranian retaliation. At that time, Tehran accused Washington of using local residents in the Gulf region as “human shields,” as thousands of US troops took shelter in civilian hotels and office buildings.
Timothy Hawkins, a spokesperson for the US Central Command, declined to comment on the troop movements. He did, however, state that the repositioning of forces is a routine practice aimed at enhancing operational readiness and capabilities, adding that the military remains prepared to defend US personnel and interests.
Meanwhile, citing an increase in attacks by the Houthi movement in Yemen, the US State Department has ordered the departure of non-essential diplomatic staff and their family members from Saudi Arabia. This decision was taken in light of the risk of attacks on critical infrastructure, including civilian airports.
According to a Reuters report, preparations are underway to withdraw diplomatic personnel from several other countries in the Gulf region. However, US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott has dismissed reports regarding the withdrawal of additional personnel as “incorrect.”
