The United States has begun withdrawing some military personnel from bases in the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran. The move followed warnings from Tehran that American bases could face strikes if Washington intervenes.
A US official confirmed the partial withdrawal on Wednesday, citing precautionary measures due to deteriorating regional security conditions. The official spoke anonymously because of the sensitivity of the situation.
Iran’s warning came as its leadership struggles to suppress severe domestic unrest. The protests represent the most intense internal challenge since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Meanwhile, Iranian authorities aim to deter repeated intervention threats from President Donald Trump.
According to officials, Washington fears that escalation could place US forces at risk across the region. Therefore, limited personnel reductions were initiated at key installations.
European officials said US military intervention now appears increasingly likely. One official suggested action could occur within the next 24 hours. Another noted that preparations indicate heightened readiness rather than routine repositioning.
An Israeli official also indicated that intervention appears imminent. However, officials said details about timing and scale remain unclear. Despite this uncertainty, regional governments remain on alert.
Qatar confirmed drawdowns at Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US military facility in the Middle East. Authorities said the decision responds directly to current regional tensions.
Diplomats stated that some personnel were advised to leave the base. However, they reported no signs of a full evacuation. Unlike previous incidents, there were no mass relocations to public facilities.
Tensions have intensified as Iran faces widespread protests triggered by economic hardship. These demonstrations escalated rapidly and turned violent in recent days. Both Iranian and Western officials describe the unrest as unprecedented.
Iranian officials claim over 2,000 people have died during the crackdown. Meanwhile, a human rights organization estimated the death toll exceeds 2,600. These figures highlight the severity of the situation.
Iran’s Armed Forces Chief blamed foreign enemies for widespread destruction. Separately, France’s foreign minister described the repression as the most violent in Iran’s modern history.
Iranian authorities accuse the United States and Israel of fueling unrest. They describe the protesters as armed groups seeking destabilization.
As tensions rise, the partial US withdrawal signals concern rather than retreat. Nevertheless, the move underscores growing fears of a wider regional confrontation.
