U.S. State Department reduces staff at four Middle East embassies after Iran threat intelligence

The U.S. State Department has decided to reduce staff at four embassies in the Middle East following intelligence indicating Iran has escalated efforts to target American individuals in the region and beyond. Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton sent a memo to Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that Iranian plotting against U.S. citizens has reached advanced stages. Three U.S. officials confirmed the threats from Iran and Iran-backed Houthi militants prompted the staffing changes. The four embassies will remain open but operate under restricted status with reduced personnel. The move comes as President Donald Trump has hinted at possible new strikes against Iran after November midterm elections.