TEL AVIV / WASHINGTON D.C. — Tensions in the Middle East have once again reached a boiling point as Israel prepares for a potential strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, prompting a sharp response from the United States, which has begun evacuating diplomatic personnel from Baghdad amid fears of Iranian retaliation.
Reports from Times of India, The Times (UK), and Reuters confirm that Israeli defense officials have drawn up detailed operational plans targeting key Iranian nuclear installations, raising international alarms over the risk of full-scale regional warfare.
U.S. Begins Evacuation of Baghdad Embassy
The U.S. State Department confirmed that it has begun a partial evacuation of staff from Baghdad’s Green Zone, citing potential threats linked to Israeli military actions. The move comes amid increased activity from Iran-backed militias in Iraq and Syria.
“We are taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our personnel in the region,” a senior U.S. official told Reuters.
The evacuation is seen as a preemptive measure in case Israel launches a strike and Iran chooses to retaliate against U.S. interests in the region — a highly likely scenario, according to military analysts.
Why Israel Might Strike Now
The urgency behind Israel’s potential strike on Iran’s nuclear program stems from recent intelligence assessments suggesting that Tehran is nearing weapons-grade uranium enrichment, a red line for Israeli defense doctrine.
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Israel's Mossad has reportedly tracked accelerated activity at Iranian nuclear sites in Natanz and Fordow.
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Analysts say that the nuclear breakout time — the period Iran needs to produce one nuclear weapon — may have shortened to just weeks.
“Iran can’t have nuclear weapons. Period,” former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated recently, emphasizing that diplomacy should remain the primary approach but warning of severe consequences if Iran crosses the nuclear threshold.
Regional Domino Effect
If Israel proceeds, the entire region could descend into chaos. Iran has threatened retaliation against Israeli cities and U.S. bases in the Middle East. Tehran has also hinted at activating proxy networks, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and Shi’ite militias in Iraq.
Key consequences if a strike occurs:
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Surge in global oil prices
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Attacks on U.S. and Israeli embassies
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Closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil passes
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Potential cyberattacks on Western infrastructure
U.S. Response: A Balancing Act
While the United States supports Israel's security, it is attempting to de-escalate tensions to avoid triggering a broader war. The Biden administration is actively engaged in backchannel diplomacy with Gulf states and European allies to contain the fallout.
A senior White House official confirmed to The Times (UK):
“We are not greenlighting a strike, but we are prepared for all contingencies.”
Despite Trump's tough stance, current U.S. leadership continues to prioritize non-military solutions and has warned Israel against unilateral action that could spiral out of control.
Iran’s Reaction and Readiness
Iran's Revolutionary Guards have been placed on high alert, and missile units have reportedly been mobilized across the country. State-affiliated media in Iran warns of a “severe and crushing response” if its sovereignty is violated.
Tehran also conducted military drills in recent days, simulating attacks on Israeli and U.S. assets, showcasing hypersonic missile capabilities and anti-air defense systems.
Could This Lead to War?
Experts believe a limited Israeli strike could trigger a series of escalations, potentially dragging in major powers and escalating into a regional or even global conflict.
According to the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS):
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There’s a 40% chance of Israel launching a preventive strike by the end of 2025.
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Diplomatic efforts are failing to slow down Iran's nuclear acceleration.
What Happens Next?
The coming weeks will be crucial. If Israel believes Iran is just days away from completing a nuclear weapon, it may act despite U.S. hesitations. For now, diplomats, military analysts, and the public are watching with unease.
📌 Key Takeaways
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Israel is preparing to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities, citing an urgent nuclear threat.
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The U.S. has started evacuating Baghdad, fearing Iranian retaliation.
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Trump emphasized Iran “can’t have nuclear weapons,” but still backs diplomacy.
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Potential fallout includes regional war, oil disruptions, and global security threats.
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📚 Sources
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Additional reporting via INSS, IAEA, U.S. State Department statements
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