The United States has instructed nonessential staff and family members at its embassy in Beirut to depart Lebanon, a State Department official confirmed on Monday. The move comes as tensions with Iran rise amid the threat of a potentially imminent military strike.

A continuous assessment of the regional security situation led officials to deem it “prudent” to reduce the embassy’s presence, leaving only essential personnel on duty. The official, speaking anonymously because the decision had not yet been formally announced, said the measure is temporary and the embassy will remain operational.

Historical context fuels concern

Lebanon has long been a site for Iran-related attacks against U.S. facilities and personnel. Tehran’s support for the Hezbollah militant group—held responsible for the 1983 Marine barracks bombing and a 1984 embassy annex attack in Beirut—has made U.S. missions in the region particularly vulnerable.

Staff changes at the Beirut embassy are often interpreted as early warning signals of potential U.S. or Israeli military action, particularly against Iran. A similar drawdown occurred in Beirut and other regional posts, including Iraq, shortly before President Donald Trump ordered strikes against Iranian nuclear sites last June.

It remains unclear whether other U.S. embassies in the Middle East will implement similar orders.

Rising tensions and ongoing diplomacy

Tensions have escalated as the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Middle East. A second aircraft carrier is en route to join a surge of warships and aircraft, giving the president multiple options for potential action even as nuclear negotiations continue.

Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi said the next round of U.S.–Iran nuclear talks is scheduled for Thursday in Geneva. Iran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi told CBS, “a good chance” remains for a diplomatic solution. He added that a proposed deal could be ready within days and that Iran is still working on it.

President Trump has not ruled out limited military action, telling reporters on Friday, “I guess I can say I am considering that,” and warning Iran to “negotiate a fair deal.”

Meanwhile, a second State Department official said Secretary of State Marco Rubio may delay his planned visit to Israel this weekend.