US warns citizens that Houthi attacks 'have potential to escalate rapidly'

The United States has issued a travel advisory for citizens considering visiting Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, Qatar, Syria, Yemen, and Israel. The primary concern is the threat of terrorism, including the possibility of drone and missile attacks by Iran and the Iranian-backed Houthis. Travelers are urged to reconsider going to the Yemen border due to terrorism.

The US also warns that Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia could escalate rapidly beyond the immediate region. State Department officials emphasize that these advisories reflect recent strikes, such as those on Riyadh, Dammam, Najran, and Jazan airports, which have caused disruptions to air travel. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has only partially reopened, and international services have not yet been fully restored.

The most recent Houthi attack occurred at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, resulting in two deaths and eight injuries. Concerns are mounting for a renewed escalation between the US and Iran. President Donald Trump suggested that the US might launch another military operation against Iran if a deal cannot be reached, though he later suggested a willingness to negotiate.

Iranian officials have threatened additional widespread retaliation against any further US attacks, potentially targeting US military installations like cables, data centers, and artificial intelligence sites. The US maintains a naval blockade on Iran's ports, while Iran continues to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz.