Trump threatens another ‘little Epic Fury’ against Iran

US President Donald Trump has threatened to launch another military operation against Iran, as Washington quietly withdraws diplomatic personnel and relocates troops from bases across the Middle East in moves resembling preparations ahead of the initial US-Israeli strikes in February.

We may do another little Epic Fury, or they'll agree, Trump declared during a campaign rally in Florida on Friday, referring to the military offensive launched against Iran on February 28.

Diplomatic withdrawals

The State Department has announced staffing reductions at four more embassies across the Middle East, citing alleged threats from Iran and Yemen's Houthis. The diplomatic missions in Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates will remain open but operate with fewer personnel.

Unlike in Saudi Arabia, where nonessential staff and their families were ordered to leave earlier this week, personnel at the other embassies are not required to depart.

Military movements

A separate intelligence memo sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that Tehran had intensified efforts to target Americans abroad. Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton wrote that lethal plotting efforts by the Iranians against US citizens have reached advanced stages in both the Middle East and certain other countries.

The drawdowns coincide with reports that the Pentagon has quietly begun relocating troops from bases in Jordan, Qatar and Kuwait. Similar precautions were taken before the February 28 offensive, when the Pentagon evacuated troops from vulnerable installations ahead of anticipated Iranian retaliation.

Trump has pledged not to launch new attacks before the November 3 midterm elections, while keeping military action on the table if Tehran refuses Washington's demands.