Source: BBC News [UK State Media]
“The US government has ordered all non-essential staff to leave its embassy in the Lebanese capital of Beirut after a security review, a senior State Department official has told the BBC. The decision comes as there are heightened tensions in the region, with US President Donald Trump threatening military action against Iran if it does not reach a deal over its nuclear programme. Iran has previously vowed to retaliate if attacked by the US, with American bases and facilities in the Middle East thought to be possible targets. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has delayed a planned trip to Israel without announcing a reason. A senior State Department official said: ‘We continuously assess the security environment, and based on our latest review, we determined it prudent to reduce our footprint to essential personnel.'” (02/23/26)