US to partially evacuate embassy in Iraq as Iran tensions rise

The move comes as US talks over Iran's nuclear programme appear to have stalled in recent days.

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Officials did not say exactly what prompted the removal, but have been told Israel was ready to launch an operation into Iran, the BBC's US partner CBS reported.

This was part of the reason some Americans were advised to leave the region, officials said, adding that they anticipated Iran could retaliate on certain US sites in Iraq. US officials have also restricted the movements of staff within Israel itself.

It comes as US talks over Iran's nuclear programme appear to have stalled in recent days.

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is still planning on holding talks with Iran about its nuclear programme on Sunday, officials told CBS.