The New York Times revealed that, due to Iran’s security threats rising to their highest level, the U.S. government has increased its state of alert in the Middle East and is reducing the number of staff at its embassies in six countries in the region.
The American New York Times reported, citing officials from the country, that amid escalating security threats, the U.S. government has raised the level of vigilance and readiness among its personnel across the Middle East and has taken steps to reduce the number of staff at its embassies and consulates in the region.
The report said that, according to U.S. officials, a “limited operations” system is to be implemented at U.S. diplomatic missions in each of the countries of Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait, without fully closing the diplomatic institutions and buildings.
U.S. officials clarified that Iran’s threats against Americans in the Middle East have reached their highest level since the war began in February of this year, while indicating that Iran’s ability to carry out attacks inside U.S. territory remains limited.
It was also revealed that U.S. authorities have information about the possible presence of individuals linked to Iran inside the United States. At the same time, there are concerns about an Iranian plan to target Americans in Europe. The report concluded by stating that U.S. President Donald Trump regularly continues to receive intelligence briefings on those security threats that extend beyond the borders of the Middle East.
