US evacuates Beirut embassy staff amid Iran tensions

The United States has ordered the evacuation of non-essential personnel from its embassy in Beirut. The State Department did not specify the reason, but the move comes as President Donald Trump strengthens the American military presence in the Middle East and increases pressure on Iran, Fox News reports.

The embassy in Lebanon remains open but is operating with a reduced staff limited to essential personnel. The measure is described as temporary and aimed at ensuring employee safety.

According to available information, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has tightened its control over Hezbollah, which could be mobilised in the event of a US strike on Tehran. Analysts warn that, if Iran faced an existential threat, it might deploy Hezbollah against Israel or American targets in the region.

The situation is further complicated by upcoming talks in Geneva on Iran’s nuclear programme. Experts say decisions on further steps rest with a small circle of White House advisers.

(mja)