French energy company TotalEnergies has withdrawn around 1,300 employees from the Middle East as tensions rise between Iran, Israel, and the United States, according to a report by Al Jazeera. The company’s CEO, Patrick Pouyanné, said the workers were relocated from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq.

Pouyanné explained that only a small number of local employees and contractors remain to maintain essential operations. The decision was made due to the deteriorating security situation in the region, with the company prioritizing the safety of its personnel.

The move underscores growing concerns among international firms operating in the Middle East as the regional conflict intensifies, potentially affecting energy operations and supply stability.