US Embassies in the Middle East Prepare for an Extended Period With Reduced Staff Amid Iran War

The U.S. State Department is preparing Middle East embassies for an extended period of operating with reduced staff amid the war with Iran and ongoing security concerns. According to CNN sources, some employees evacuated from regional missions are being offered the possibility of ending assignments earlier than planned, though no final decision has been reached on shifting embassies into a “restricted operating status.” State Department spokespersons said staffing levels are reviewed by mission based on local conditions and threats.