Iraq denies security concerns behind US Embassy personnel evacuation

ISTANBUL

A senior Iraqi government official confirmed Wednesday that the US decision to evacuate some nonessential personnel from its embassy in Baghdad is part of broader US diplomatic procedures across the Middle East, and not tied to any specific security threat within Iraq.

Speaking to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), the official said: “This step is related to procedures concerning the US diplomatic presence in several Middle Eastern countries and is not specific to Iraq.”

The official added that Iraqi authorities have observed no security indicators that would warrant such an evacuation.

“All security assessments and briefings point to growing signs of internal stability and security,” the official said, affirming: “All Arab and foreign diplomatic missions operating in Iraq continue to enjoy full safety, freedom of movement, and active engagement across the country—not just in the capital, Baghdad.”

The US is evacuating diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, a State Department official confirmed to Anadolu Wednesday.

"President Trump is committed to keeping Americans safe, both at home and abroad. In keeping with that commitment, we are constantly assessing the appropriate personnel posture at all our embassies," the official told Anadolu in a statement. "Based on our latest analysis, we decided to reduce our Mission in Iraq."

The extent of the evacuation, including whether it includes all US diplomatic staff, remains unclear.

Earlier on Wednesday, Iran’s defense minister threatened to target US bases in the region if a conflict breaks out between the two countries over Tehran’s nuclear program.