IJR News — today's news from every sideDiplomats Return to Middle East EmbassiesWorld — Aug 26, 2026The United States is gradually restoring staffing at several Middle East embassies that were evacuated or downsized during Iran-related tensions, with diplomats and some family members allowed to return and posts operating at limited levels (typically about 75–85% capacity) in places like Lebanon, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Iraq’s Baghdad, signaling a measured move toward normalcy without full-scale restoration. The changes are largely driven by administrative and HR policies on how long personnel can be away while still receiving benefits, rather than a shift in broader policy toward Iran.
