US says it ordered non-emergency embassy staff to leave Saudi Arabia
US says it ordered non-emergency embassy staff to leave Saudi Arabia The US embassy in Riyadh said on Wednesday that it issued a security alert instructing its non-emergency staff and their families to leave Saudi Arabia on 23 October due to safety risks amid ongoing escalation with Yemen's Houthis. "Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on…
On October 23, 2026, the US government issued a security alert ordering non-emergency embassy staff and their families to evacuate Saudi Arabia due to escalating tensions with Yemen's Houthis. The Houthis, supported by Iran, have been conducting hostilities against Saudi Arabia, targeting civilian airports and critical infrastructure, leading to civilian casualties and significant travel disruptions.
These attacks pose a significant risk of rapid escalation beyond the immediate area. In response, the US Department of State now requires special authorization from the Chief of Mission for any US government employee to use an airport in Saudi Arabia. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has partially reopened for domestic flights and select international flights, while King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam remain operational with delays and cancellations.
US citizens are advised to exercise extreme caution when using airports in Saudi Arabia and to verify flight statuses directly with airlines and airports.
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
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