TL/DR –
The US State Department has ordered non-essential embassy personnel to leave Saudi Arabia as attacks from Iran-backed Houthi militants increase. The US military has also been quietly reducing its presence in the Middle East due to threats from the Houthis and Iran. The decision follows US embassy warnings to Americans in the region to be cautious and prepare for travel disruptions due to the attacks.
US Embassy Personnel Evacuated from Saudi Arabia
The U.S. State Department has instructed non-essential U.S. embassy workers to exit Saudi Arabia due to an increased rate of attacks on the kingdom by Iran-backed Houthi militants.
A U.S. military official revealed to CBS News that the U.S. military has been reducing its presence in the Middle East, keeping in view persistent regional threats from the Houthis and direct threats from Iran.
The State Department has specifically issued an ordered departure for non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members from Saudi Arabia, informed spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
Several U.S. embassies are operating under \”restricted operations\” status without going on ordered departure— a mandatory evacuation of selected diplomatic staff and family members due to security risks.
This departure from Saudi Arabia follows the warning issued by the U.S. embassies in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE and others to American citizens urging them to exercise caution and be prepared for travel interruptions due to Houthi attacks.
Pigott cited increased hostilities by Iranian-backed Houthis against Saudi Arabia causing civilian casualties and disruptions in travel.
Recent weeks saw the Houthis launching drones and missiles at Saudi airports and oil facilities, including a deadly attack on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. Houthi attacks continue despite Saudi-led military coalition’s efforts to intercept them.
The Houthis’ territorial control in Yemen, including the capital of Sanaa, continues to expand. Some Saudi authorities attribute the Houthis’ conduct to their alliance with Iran, who denies any involvement.
The conflict could affect more than just Saudi Arabia due to the Houthis’ proximity to the key maritime chokepoint, Bab al-Mandab Strait, through which a significant share of the world’s oil flows.
Yemen’s ambassador, Marwan Ali Noman, urged for international assistance, warning CBS News that Houthi attacks could continue unless faced with resistance.
The UK has offered support to Saudi Arabia including defensive air operations, while it is uncertain whether the U.S. will also assist.
President Trump did not rule out launching attacks on the Houthis, stating earlier this month that they are in communication with the group.
James LaPorta and Eleanor Watson contributed to this report.
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