WASHINGTON/TEHRAN: Tensions escalated across the Middle East on Wednesday as the United States (US) began withdrawing personnel from key regional bases, amid warnings from Iran that it would retaliate if American forces launched an attack. The situation follows widespread protests in Iran and threats by former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly signalled potential intervention, promising strong action if demonstrations are violently suppressed.
Read More: Qatar confirms exit of US personnel from airbase as Iran tensions rise
Trump, however, stated late Wednesday that killings in Iran had reportedly subsided and that there was currently no plan for large-scale executions. Despite this, Pentagon officials are reportedly reviewing a wider range of strike options, potentially targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and ballistic missile sites, according to reports in The New York Times.
Moscow Warns Washington Any US Strike on Iran Would Be Unacceptable
Russia’s Foreign Ministry calls US threats to attack Iran “categorically unacceptable” and warns such action would have disastrous consequences for Middle East and global security.#WashingtonEye pic.twitter.com/J69f1s1W0A
— Washington Eye (@washington_EY) January 15, 2026
European officials warned that a US strike could be imminent, noting that unpredictability has been a deliberate part of American strategy in the region. A senior Iranian official said Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Ankara had been informed that US bases in their territories could be targeted if Washington attacked Iran.
Direct diplomatic contacts between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have also been suspended. Britain, responding to the tensions, reportedly began withdrawing personnel from its air base in Qatar, while the US confirmed drawdowns at its largest Middle East hub, Al Udeid, as a precaution.
Saudi Arabia moved to protect its territory, explicitly informing Iran that its land would not be used for any offensive operations. The US Embassy in Riyadh advised staff and citizens to exercise caution and limit non-essential travel near military installations, highlighting the heightened risk in the region.
Read More: Iran warns regional U.S. allies of retaliation threat
Analysts warn that any escalation could have serious consequences for regional security, energy markets, and global geopolitical stability. Both sides have urged restraint, but the unfolding developments indicate that the Middle East remains on high alert amid fears of potential military conflict.