US Embassy Orders Staff Departure Amid Houthi Attacks
Riyadh alerts citizens to extreme caution at airports following missile and UAV strikes on critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
By Megan Parker ·
The United States Embassy in Riyadh issued a formal security alert on November 3, 2026, warning American citizens of rising dangers from Yemen's Houthi forces.
The Department of State mandated that non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members leave Saudi Arabia as of October 23, 2026. This order cites specific safety risks created by ongoing hostilities. The alert notes that Iranian-supported Houthis have targeted civilian airports and other critical infrastructure. These attacks have resulted in civilian casualties and severe disruptions to travel.
The embassy stated that the conflict has the potential to expand beyond the immediate area of recent strikes. U.S. government employees who remain in the kingdom now require special authorization from the Chief of Mission to use any airport. This new restriction follows recent missile and unmanned aerial vehicle attacks on facilities within the country.
American citizens are advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling by air. The embassy listed potential attacks, airspace closures, and flight cancellations as key concerns. Travelers are instructed to check departure status directly with their airlines and airports. The alert emphasizes that disruptions are currently widespread across the region.
Source: Middle East Eye
