The US State Department is preparing to return diplomats to Middle East embassies that were evacuated during the conflict with Iran.
The US State Department is preparing to return diplomats to Middle East embassies that were evacuated during the conflict with Iran. Foreign Service officers may begin returning to their posts as early as this week, marking a shift in Washington's diplomatic security posture. This redeployment follows a period of reduced staffing due to missile and drone threats from Iran, which prompted nonemergency personnel to leave missions in Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The drawdown began after the US and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran on February 28. While tensions remain unresolved, the administration announced the easing of restrictions on diplomatic personnel. This move comes as the US continues to maintain military and economic pressure on Tehran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that Washington has not ruled out further military strikes. Meanwhile, President Trump said last week that no negotiations with Iran are scheduled and the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz remains in effect.