UK withdraws all embassy staff from Iran amid security concerns

The United Kingdom has temporarily withdrawn all of its embassy staff from Tehran as tensions continue to escalate between the United States and Iran. The British government has also issued updated security advice for its citizens in the Middle East. The BBC reported the development.

In a statement released on Thursday (July 23), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said all embassy personnel had been temporarily withdrawn from Iran due to the deteriorating security situation.

The FCDO said the British Embassy in Tehran has not been closed and will continue to operate on a limited basis from a remote location.

The UK government also warned British nationals in Iran that they face a high risk of detention, arrest and questioning.

According to the statement, holding a British passport, or even being perceived to have links to the United Kingdom, could be sufficient grounds for arrest. Those detained in Iran could face imprisonment ranging from several months to several years.

About a month ago, the UK had already withdrawn a number of embassy staff from Tehran as a precautionary measure. With the latest move, all remaining embassy personnel have now been temporarily relocated from Iran.