BEIRUT — The United States evacuated dozens of non-essential personnel from its embassy in Beirut via Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport on Monday, the State Department confirmed. Officials described the move as a precautionary measure in response to anticipated regional developments.
“The Department of State has ordered the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and eligible family members from the US Embassy Beirut,” a spokesperson told The Jerusalem Post. The embassy remains operational with core staff in place to maintain essential functions and assist American citizens.
The evacuation coincides with a significant US military buildup near Iran. The current deployment includes two destroyers in the Mediterranean, one in the Red Sea, four in the Persian Gulf, and the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln with four accompanying destroyers in the Arabian Sea. The USS Gerald R. Ford also arrived in the Mediterranean on Friday with supporting warships.
Over 50 fighter jets, including F-16s, F-22s, and F-35s, have been moved to the region in the past 24 hours, Axios reported, citing US officials. The deployment is intended to prepare for a possible extended confrontation with the Iranian regime.
US and Western officials have warned that Iran may direct proxy forces to attack American targets globally in response to any large-scale strikes. While no specific plots have been identified, heightened intercepted communications indicate some level of planning and coordination, according to the New York Times.
Experts caution that Iran’s leadership could order attacks abroad, including in Europe, if it perceives a direct threat. Meanwhile, reports suggest President Donald Trump is considering a broader campaign against Iran in the coming months should Tehran fail to comply with US demands regarding its nuclear program.
