US Partially Evacuates Beirut Embassy as Iran Strike Preparations Intensify

The State Department has ordered non-essential staff to leave the U.S. Embassy in Beirut after a security review, a significant escalation signal as the American military buildup near Iran intensifies. The partial evacuation of the Lebanon embassy — a traditional flashpoint in Middle Eastern conflicts — suggests Washington is preparing for the possibility of Iranian or Hezbollah retaliation if strikes proceed. The move comes as Iranian students protest against the regime for a third consecutive day, Trump dismisses reports of a 'limited' strike plan, and his top general privately warns of the acute risks of a major operation against Tehran.