The United States has issued a security alert for its mission in Saudi Arabia, requiring US government personnel in the kingdom to obtain special authorisation for all official and personal travel to the cities of Taif and Yanbu.
In a statement, the US Mission in Saudi Arabia said the restrictions were imposed “due to the ongoing security situation” and urged American citizens residing in or visiting the kingdom to remain vigilant and follow all recommended security precautions.
The mission emphasised that both routine and emergency consular services continue to be available to US citizens.
The alert follows a series of attacks launched by Yemen’s Houthi movement against Saudi Arabia, including a ballistic missile reportedly aimed at Riyadh. Saudi-led coalition forces said the missile was successfully intercepted before reaching its target.
The Houthis also attempted strikes targeting civilian populations and critical infrastructure in Bish, Taif, Farasan and Yanbu, prompting Saudi authorities to enhance security measures across the kingdom.
As tensions escalated, Saudi officials issued an emergency warning regarding a “hostile aerial threat”. Reports also emerged of an explosion and a large plume of smoke near Riyadh’s airport. Saudi authorities later stated that the incident caused no casualties or property damage.
The US Mission has advised American citizens in Saudi Arabia to enrol in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), closely monitor local media and official announcements, keep mobile devices charged, and follow directions issued by Saudi authorities.
Americans were further advised to stay away from windows and glass doors during any aerial attack, avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings, exercise caution at locations publicly associated with the United States, and maintain a low profile.
The US State Department currently maintains a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory for Saudi Arabia, citing risks related to Iranian drone and missile attacks, armed conflict and terrorism.
Additional travel restrictions already apply to US government employees in several sensitive areas, including the Yemen border region, Jizan, Asir, Najran and Qatif.
Meanwhile, Qatar has strongly condemned the Houthi attacks, including the ballistic missile directed at Riyadh and attempted strikes on civilian populations and infrastructure in Bish, Taif, Farasan and Yanbu.
Statement from Qatar’s Foreign Ministry described the attacks as a violation of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and international law, reaffirming Doha’s solidarity with the kingdom.
Separately, the United States has warned Americans travelling to or through West Asia to remain vigilant amid heightened regional tensions, citing the potential for flight cancellations, airspace closures and other travel disruptions.
