The United States has begun withdrawing some personnel from key bases in the Middle East, a US official confirmed on Wednesday, following warnings from Iran that it could target American facilities if the US intervenes.
The move comes as Iran faces its most severe domestic unrest in decades, with authorities cracking down on anti-government protesters. Human rights groups report that more than 2,400 demonstrators have been killed in recent violence.
The US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the withdrawals as a precaution in response to heightened regional tensions. Reports indicate that Britain is also removing some personnel from its air base in Qatar ahead of potential US military action, though the UK Ministry of Defence declined to comment on operational security measures.
Qatar, home to Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest US military base in the Middle East, with around 10,000 US personnel and about 100 UK staff, said it would continue taking all necessary steps to protect citizens, residents, and critical infrastructure. It remains unclear how many personnel will be pulled from the base.
Also Read:
Aid Operations Are Stopped By The Controversial US-Backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation
Nigeria: Over 300 Students Were Kidnapped During A School Raid
