Tensions are ramping higher in the Middle East. Summary of where we are at:
- US officials are concerned over the high likelihood of an Israeli strike on Iran, on military facilities
- the US diplomatic mission in Iraq has begun the emergency evacuation of diplomats
- the US is also said to be is preparing to evacuate military personnel from Kuwait and Bahrain
- Pentagon head Hegseth authorised the voluntary departure of US military family members from facilities in the Central Command.
Hegseth “has authorised the voluntary departure of military dependents from locations” across the region
An alternative take on developments is that this all a smokescreen in an attempt by the Trump administration to gain leverage in its ongoing negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme.
I can’t say I’m overly keen on that alternative take, but there it is for your consideration.
Brent update:
This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.
