The U.S. State Department ordered the department of non-emergency U.S. government personnel from the U.S. embassy in Beirut on Monday.
“The Department of State has ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members from U.S. Embassy Beirut. We continuously assess the security environment, and based on our latest review, we determined it prudent to reduce our footprint to essential personnel,” the statement said.
The reported drawdown comes as Washington mobilizes military assets across the Middle East in a bid to intensify pressure on Iran ahead of negotiations set to resume on Thursday. U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly weighing the option of a limited strike should talks with Tehran fail to yield an agreement.
The developments unfold amid U.S. and international warnings against Hezbollah’s involvement in any broader regional conflict. Officials have cautioned that the group’s entry into a confrontation with Israel, whether directly or in support of Iran, would carry serious consequences for Lebanon and the wider region.
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