UK Withdraws Iran Embassy Staff, US Advises Mission in Israel to Leave

27/02/2026

LONDON, Feb 27: The United Kingdom has temporarily withdrawn its embassy staff from Tehran, citing the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East, as the United States authorized voluntary departures for non-essential personnel from its mission in Israel.

Britain’s Foreign Office said the precautionary step was taken in response to rising regional tensions. “We have temporarily closed the British Embassy in Tehran, which will now operate remotely,” a government spokesperson said, adding that travel advice has been updated accordingly. The UK has not withdrawn staff from Israel but continues to advise against travel to certain areas due to security concerns.

In Israel, US Ambassador Mike Huckabee informed embassy staff that non-essential personnel may depart while commercial flights remain available. “There may be outbound flights over the coming days, there may not be,” Huckabee wrote, urging those considering departure to act promptly. The advisory is among the clearest signals yet of escalating concerns over a potential regional conflict.

The warnings follow stalled nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran, which ended without agreement. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to visit Israel next week to discuss regional priorities, including Iran and ongoing efforts related to Gaza. President Donald Trump, speaking earlier this week, reiterated that while he prefers a diplomatic solution, the United States would not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon.

The US has reinforced its military presence in the region in recent weeks, deploying additional aircraft and naval assets. Iran has responded with threats toward Israel, heightening fears that any military action could trigger a broader regional confrontation.

More details are expected as the situation develops.