The British government has temporarily withdrawn its embassy staff from Iran, citing escalating security concerns across the region.
In a statement released Friday, the UK Foreign Office confirmed that the embassy would now operate remotely, warning that its ability to assist British nationals in Iran is “extremely limited.” Officials said there will be no in-person consular support available, even in emergency situations.
The move comes amid growing fears that US President Donald Trump could authorize military action against Tehran. Washington has reportedly carried out its largest military build-up in the Middle East in decades, intensifying anxieties of a potential confrontation.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said Britain remains focused on supporting diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran, stressing the UK’s commitment to a political solution.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Jerusalem also announced it had authorized the departure of non-emergency government personnel and family members due to heightened safety risks. In a notice posted on its website, the embassy urged individuals to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights remain available.
According to The New York Times, US Ambassador Mike Huckabee emailed embassy staff advising those who wished to leave to do so immediately, prioritizing a swift departure from the country.
President Trump, who previously ordered strikes on Iran last year, has repeatedly warned Tehran of further military action if it fails to reach an agreement with the United States.
Iran, however, signaled Friday that any deal would require Washington to scale back what it described as “excessive demands.” The remarks tempered earlier optimism surrounding Oman-mediated talks, which had been viewed as a last-ditch effort to prevent open conflict.
Diplomatic negotiations between American and Iranian officials reportedly collapsed in Geneva on Thursday over disagreements related to Iran’s nuclear programme, further raising concerns about the risk of escalation.
