The United States has started pulling some personnel from its military bases across the Middle East. This move comes as a precautionary step amid rising regional tensions. A US official confirmed this development to Reuters on Wednesday, January 14.
Precautionary Withdrawal Amid Threats
Iran issued a stark warning through a senior official. Tehran stated it would target American bases in the region if Washington intervenes in Iran's internal affairs. The US decision follows this threat directly.
'Posture Change' Not Full Evacuation
A US official, speaking anonymously, described the action as a change in posture rather than a full-scale evacuation. Some personnel have already received advice to leave key installations like the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. However, officials emphasize this is not a large-scale withdrawal similar to past incidents.
One diplomat clarified the situation. "It's a posture change, not an ordered evacuation," they said. There are no current signs of troops relocating to civilian areas nearby. This contrasts with movements seen before previous confrontations.
Iran's Direct Warning to Neighbors
The senior Iranian official delivered a clear message to neighboring countries. Tehran informed nations from Saudi Arabia and the UAE to Turkey that US bases on their soil would face attacks if America strikes Iran. This warning was conveyed anonymously to Reuters.
The official also revealed that direct contacts between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have been suspended. Iranian authorities accuse the United States and Israel of fueling domestic unrest, labeling protesters as terrorists.
Trump's Repeated Intervention Threats
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene in Iran. He cites the government's crackdown on protests that began two weeks ago. These demonstrations erupted over dire economic conditions and quickly spread nationwide.
Trump promised "very strong action" if Iran executes protesters. He urged Iranians to continue demonstrating, declaring that "help is on the way." His statements have added fuel to the already volatile situation.
Mounting Death Toll in Domestic Unrest
Iran is grappling with severe domestic unrest, described as the worst in the Islamic Republic's history. Iranian officials acknowledge over 2,000 deaths. Independent rights groups place the toll even higher.
The US-based HRANA rights group verified specific numbers. It reported 2,403 protester deaths and 147 government-affiliated fatalities. Arrests have exceeded 18,000 individuals so far.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Abdolrahim Mousavi commented on Wednesday. "Iran has never faced this volume of destruction," he said, blaming foreign enemies. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called the crackdown "the most violent repression in Iran's contemporary history."
Regional Bases Remain on High Alert
The United States maintains a significant military footprint across the Middle East. Key facilities include the forward headquarters of US Central Command at Al Udeid in Qatar. The US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain is another critical installation.
These bases are now on heightened alert. The personnel withdrawal represents a calibrated response to escalating threats. The situation remains fluid as both nations navigate this tense diplomatic and military standoff.
