U.S. diplomatic missions in Israel and across the Middle East have issued a broad security alert for American citizens in the region amid rising tensions and fears of a rapid escalation of the situation.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Israel, Iran and groups backed by Tehran, including the Houthis, could target U.S. diplomatic missions, companies and institutions across the Middle East and beyond.
American citizens have been warned of possible flight disruptions and airspace closures in the region, while being urged to remain vigilant, secure supplies of food and water, and download applications for receiving real-time alerts.
Amid the situation, U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House one day earlier than planned after departing for Camp David, Maryland.
His early return came after a new security alert from the U.S. State Department, which urged American citizens in the Middle East to “exercise maximum vigilance” and prepare for possible travel disruptions.
“This military conflict has the potential to escalate rapidly,” the State Department said in its notice.
Meanwhile, Yemen’s Houthis said on Saturday that they had launched missiles and drones at “sensitive” targets in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.
The attacks were reported several hours after flames and a large cloud of smoke were seen near the city’s main airport. Saudi Arabia had earlier issued warnings of a potential threat in the Riyadh area, as Houthi attacks against the kingdom have intensified.
The Houthis did not specify the target in Riyadh, but also claimed to have attacked an Aramco facility in Yanbu, on the Red Sea coast, one of Saudi Arabia’s main oil-export hubs.
