US Orders Diplomatic Evacuation in Saudi Arabia as Houthi Attacks Intensify
The United States has ordered non-essential embassy staff and their families to leave Saudi Arabia, citing sustained and deadly attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on civilian infrastructure. The State Department announced the drawdown on Thursday, affecting the embassy in Riyadh and consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran. While the missions remain open and consular services are still available, the move underscores growing security concerns in the kingdom. “Iranian-supported Houthis have increasingly engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure resulting in civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions,” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said in a post on X. He emphasized that “the safety and security of department personnel and their families remain our highest priority.”nnThe decision follows a pattern of heightened tensions in the region. The US previously ordered non-essential staff to leave the Gulf in late February ahead of the start of its war against Iran, and again in July before President Donald Trump called off a new wave of strikes. The latest evacuation reflects the persistent threat posed by the Houthis, who have ramped up hostilities against Saudi Arabia in recent months. Attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure have not only caused casualties but also severely disrupted travel, raising alarm among foreign missions and businesses operating in the country.nnIn a related development, essential workers at Saudi Aramco’s headquarters in the eastern part of the country were told to evacuate on Thursday, according to two sources who spoke to Agence France-Presse. This comes after non-essential colleagues were instructed to work from home since last week. The move highlights the widening impact of the security situation on vital economic operations. The US Embassy in Riyadh and its consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran have not closed, but the departure of non-essential personnel signals a precautionary approach to ensure safety amid escalating risks.nnThe evacuation order is a stark reminder of the volatile security environment in the Gulf region. With Houthi attacks showing no signs of abating, the US is taking no chances with the safety of its diplomatic corps. The State Department’s decision to reduce its footprint in Saudi Arabia while maintaining essential services demonstrates a careful balance between security and diplomatic engagement. As the situation evolves, further adjustments may be necessary, but for now, the message is
Shimanta Das 
