Intro: Officials fear US troops may be targeted, as tensions rise and military preparations intensify

Washington

The United States has begun moving troops between bases in the Middle East as tensions with Iran continue to rise.

American officials say the redeployment is part of strategic planning, but the moves come amid fears of a possible direct conflict with the Islamic Republic of Iran, hundreds of US personnel have been relocated from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Similar movements have taken place at American facilities in Bahrain, Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates.

Officials are concerned that the 30,000 to 40,000 US troops stationed across the region could become targets if a full-scale war breaks out. Military experts say any future clash would be very different from the June 2025 strike on Al Udeid, when Iran reportedly gave advance warning.

Iran’s mission to the United Nations has warned that if the US launches an attack, all American bases and assets in the region would be considered legitimate targets. In response, the US is strengthening its defence systems in the Middle East and keeping two aircraft carriers at a safer distance from Iranian territory.

While the Trump administration says it still prefers a diplomatic solution, some officials believe current talks may not be enough to prevent possible military action. Reports suggest internal planning has intensified as discussions in Washington grow more serious.