US Warns Citizens in Saudi Arabia: Exercise Extreme Caution Amid Houthi Attacks
US Embassy urges Americans in Saudi Arabia to follow Civil Defence alerts and exercise caution after missile and UAV attacks on airports.
The United States government has issued an urgent security advisory for its citizens currently residing in or visiting Saudi Arabia. The warning comes in the wake of reported missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks targeting airports within the Kingdom, prompting the US Embassy to urge Americans to stay vigilant and strictly adhere to local safety protocols.
Urgent Call for Vigilance
In a security alert released on October 19, the US Embassy emphasized the importance of following national alerts issued by Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence. These alerts are delivered via cellular broadcasts, and the embassy has urged all American citizens to monitor these notifications closely to ensure their safety.
The advisory specifically highlights the risk of further attacks on airports, which could lead to airspace closures, sudden flight cancellations, and significant travel disruptions. Consequently, the US government has advised its citizens to exercise extreme caution when utilizing airport facilities across the Kingdom.
Impact on Air Travel and Logistics
The security situation has already impacted several major aviation hubs. According to the US Embassy:
- King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh): Operations remained suspended.
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) and King Fahd International Airport (Dammam): These airports continued to operate, although passengers faced various delays and cancellations.
Travelers have been encouraged to verify their flight status directly with airlines and airport authorities. For those needing to move between cities, the embassy suggested using alternative transport methods such as trains, buses, or private cars.
On a positive note, the advisory confirmed that all land border crossings—including the King Fahd Causeway, which links Saudi Arabia and Bahrain—remain operational. Additionally, highways and roads in the vicinity of Dhahran, Jeddah, and Riyadh continue to function normally.
Strict Restrictions for US Government Personnel
The security threats have led to stringent new rules for American government employees working in the region. Personnel are now required to obtain special authorization from the Chief of Mission before using any airport in Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, the embassy has implemented travel restrictions for government staff, prohibiting travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border. Special authorization is now mandatory for any visits to the cities of Taif, Yanbu, and Qatif, as well as the provinces of Najran, Asir, and Jizan.
Legal Warnings and Safety Tips
The US Embassy also relayed a stern warning from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior regarding the documentation of military activity. American citizens are cautioned against photographing or sharing any information related to drone activity, missile interceptions, or impact sites.
“Filming, publishing, or sharing information related to counter missiles and drones, and their impact sites, exposes you to legal liability,” the advisory stated, quoting the Saudi Ministry.
To stay safe, the embassy recommended that citizens avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations. They are also advised to remain alert when visiting locations publicly associated with the United States and to keep their mobile devices fully charged.
Americans are encouraged to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to ensure they receive real-time security updates and can be easily contacted by the embassy during an emergency. The embassy confirmed that both emergency and regular consular services remain available to US citizens.
Regional Tensions Escalate
These warnings emerge amid a volatile regional climate. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, a military spokesperson for the Houthis, claimed that Saudi forces conducted 110 airstrikes and missile attacks across various Yemeni governorates within a single 24-hour window. Saree alleged that these strikes resulted in over 30 casualties, many of whom were reportedly women and children, though these claims have not been independently verified.