The situation in the Middle East has escalated as the United States intensifies its pressure on Iran regarding the latter's nuclear program. Al Jazeera reported on 23rd that the US government ordered the evacuation of embassy personnel in Beirut, Lebanon, leaving only essential staff members. A US government official stated that the security environment is continuously being assessed, and following a recent review, it was deemed prudent to reduce the number of personnel stationed there. A notice was issued indicating that additional travel restrictions for employees could be implemented without prior warning due to increasing security concerns or threats.

This decision comes against the backdrop of military mobilization in the Middle East, as President Donald Trump has threatened military action against Iran if no agreement is reached regarding its nuclear program. Trump issued an ultimatum stating that if a significant agreement is not achieved within 15 days, 'bad things' will happen. Reports indicate that US military assets, including destroyers, combat ships, and fighter jets, are being deployed in proximity to Iran, with the Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, headed to the region and the Abraham Lincoln captured by satellite near the coast of Oman, approximately 700 km from Iran.

In a related development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio postponed a planned visit to Israel, initially scheduled for the 21st to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This postponement was announced amid the heightened tensions, with Netanyahu emphasizing in the Knesset on the 23rd that Israel is prepared for all scenarios and would respond with unimaginable force should Iran decide to attack Israel.