Reuters Exclusive: US Pulls Troops from Key Middle East Bases Amid Iranian Threats

A US official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity on Wednesday, confirmed that the move is a precautionary measure amid escalating tensions between President Donald Trump and Iranian leaders. The official noted that the personnel are being shifted from strategic locations to minimize potential risks.

Earlier on Wednesday, a senior Iranian official informed Reuters that Tehran has sent warnings to neighboring countries hosting US troops. Iran stated that any military action initiated by Washington would result in direct Iranian strikes on those US installations. This escalation follows President Donald Trump’s repeated threats to intervene in support of anti-government protesters in Iran. Trump has warned of "extremely severe consequences" if the Iranian regime proceeds with executing protesters.

According to human rights organizations, the death toll in the ongoing Iranian protests has surged to approximately 2,600. These demonstrations are being categorized as the most significant challenge to Iran’s clerical establishment since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. In response to this volatile environment and the threat of direct military confrontation, Washington is prioritizing the safety of its personnel by thinning out presence at vulnerable regional bases.