Washington DC: The United States is on high alert over rising fears that Israel may strike Iran’s nuclear facilities without Washington’s approval if US-Iran nuclear talks collapse, according to the Washington Post.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he is moving US personnel out of the Middle East, particularly Iran, calling it “a dangerous place.” The US State Department has allowed staff to leave Iraq, and the Pentagon is permitting voluntary departures of military families from bases across the region.
Heightened security measures come as hopes for a US-Iran nuclear deal fade. Trump has stressed that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon. “Very simple, they can’t have a nuclear weapon,” he said on Wednesday.
Last month, Axios reported that Israel is preparing for a quick strike on Iran if talks fail. The report quoting sources said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—referred to as “Bibi”—is waiting for the negotiations to collapse and for Trump to give the green light.
Trump has also warned of possible US military action if talks fail. In a recent interview with the New York Post, he admitted being “less confident” that Iran will agree to stop enriching uranium.
US intelligence officials are worried that Israel might act unilaterally, risking Iranian retaliation and undermining ongoing diplomacy. Iran’s Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that if Israel strikes, the US—as its main supporter—would face consequences, including attacks on its regional bases.
Washington has instructed embassies in vulnerable regions—such as the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and North Africa—to establish emergency action committees. The State Department also approved voluntary staff departures from Bahrain and Kuwait.
On Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio updated the global travel advisory, noting the departure of non-essential US government personnel due to increased regional tensions.
The US maintains military bases in key oil-producing countries, including Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE.
