Trump orders US troop drawdown in Middle East amid regional tensions

US President Donald Trump ordered a partial withdrawal of American personnel from the Middle East, citing heightened risks and declaring the region “a dangerous place”.

Non-essential staff from the US Embassy in Baghdad have been ordered home, while military families and diplomats in Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Bahrain have been authorized to depart voluntarily.

The move comes amid escalating concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and reports that Israel may be preparing strikes on Iranian nuclear sites—a scenario that could destabilize the already volatile region.

Trump stated that negotiations aimed at curbing Iran’s uranium enrichment have reached a deadlock, making a diplomatic resolution “less likely”.

Iran's defense minister has warned that any attack on its nuclear facilities—whether by the US or Israel—would trigger retaliatory strikes on American military bases in the region.

The British maritime agency has also issued warnings to vessels in the Gulf and Straits of Hormuz, indicating broader concerns for maritime security.

Oil markets responded swiftly, with Brent crude surging more than 5% as markets grew anxious over potential conflict.

Meanwhile, US diplomatic and military officials continue to reassess options for protecting American citizens and personnel in the region.

Negotiators are scheduled to resume nuclear discussions in Oman later this week, although the timeline appears uncertain, and Trump's confidence in a deal remains low.