The United States has ordered the departure of nonessential staff from several diplomatic and military posts across the Middle East, citing rising regional tensions and the growing uncertainty around stalled nuclear talks with Iran. The State Department announced Wednesday it had directed nonessential personnel to leave the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad. Additionally, it authorized voluntary departure for staff and family members in Bahrain and Kuwait. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also approved the optional exit of military dependents across the region, according to U.S. Central Command. "These decisions are based on the most recent security assessments and our unwavering commitment to the safety of Americans abroad," said White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly. The move comes amid faltering negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, which U.S. officials say appears to be nearing a critical impasse. The sixth round of talks, tentatively planned for this weekend in Oman, now appears unlikely to proceed, according to two U.S. officials. President Donald Trump, speaking on the "Pod Force One" podcast, voiced skepticism about the potential for a deal. "I'm getting more and more less confident about it," he said, blaming delays on Tehran and hinting at potential military action should diplomacy fail. In response, Iran's Defense Minister Gen. Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that any conflict would place all U.S. bases in the region within Iranian reach. "If conflict is imposed on us, the opponent's casualties will certainly be more than ours," he said, adding that Tehran was fully prepared to retaliate. The situation has also prompted maritime security concerns. The UK Maritime Trade Operations center issued a warning to vessels transiting the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Strait of Hormuz, citing potential military escalation. Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency is considering a motion to censure Iran over its nuclear activities — a move that could reactivate UN sanctions suspended under the 2015 nuclear deal, which the Trump administration exited during his first term. While the U.S. drawdown affects only limited personnel, it signals growing concern about the stability of the region. Iraqi officials, however, downplayed the threat, noting no direct indicators of danger in Baghdad. — Agencies
