RIYADH: The United States has issued a security alert for Americans across the Middle East amid escalating attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement against Saudi Arabia, warning that the deteriorating security situation could rapidly spread beyond the immediate area.
The US Mission in Saudi Arabia said Americans in the region should exercise heightened vigilance because of the “complex security environment”. It warned of possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and wider travel disruptions.
The advisory came as the Iran-aligned Houthis intensified attacks on Saudi targets, including Riyadh’s international airport and critical energy infrastructure. Recent attacks have caused civilian casualties and significant disruption to air travel.
US Warns Americans of Travel Disruptions
The US Embassy in Riyadh advised American citizens travelling to or from the Middle East to closely monitor airport and airline operations and prepare contingency plans.
The embassy also warned that Iran and groups supportive of Iran could target US interests overseas or locations associated with Americans, including US businesses and other institutions.
The alert reflects growing concern that the conflict could expand beyond the areas currently experiencing direct fighting.
Houthi Attacks Intensify Across Saudi Arabia
The Houthis have stepped up missile and drone attacks against Saudi Arabia following the collapse of a truce and renewed fighting involving Saudi-backed forces in Yemen.
Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport has been among the targets. A recent attack killed at least 13 people and injured more than 300, according to reports, while also causing major disruption to flights and other activities in the capital.
Saudi oil infrastructure has also come under attack, including facilities linked to state oil giant Saudi Aramco.
The escalation has raised concerns over the security of regional energy supplies and shipping routes, including the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb waterway.
Egypt Offers Support to Saudi Arabia
The latest escalation has also prompted Egypt to signal its readiness to support Saudi Arabia.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has said Cairo is prepared to take necessary measures to defend the kingdom if Riyadh formally requests assistance. He has also sought parliamentary authorisation for possible military support.
Egypt’s National Defence Council subsequently said the country would provide “all necessary and possible forms of support” to Saudi Arabia to protect its security, territorial integrity and resources. The council also emphasised diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation.
Egyptian lawmakers have been discussing the request in an emergency session, with the question of authorising military deployment still under consideration.
EASA expands Saudi airspace warning after Houthi attacks on airports
Cairo Faces Wider Regional Risks
Any direct Egyptian military involvement would mark a significant development in the widening regional conflict.
Egypt has close strategic and economic ties with Saudi Arabia and previously participated in the Saudi-led coalition that intervened in Yemen in 2015. Its role in that campaign, however, was largely focused on securing Red Sea shipping routes rather than frontline combat operations.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has also discussed regional developments and the need for de-escalation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
Saudi Arabia Seeks Regional Support
Saudi Arabia has increasingly turned to regional partners as Houthi attacks intensify.
Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed in Abu Dhabi on Sunday for talks focused on regional security. The meeting came amid broader efforts by Gulf states and other regional partners to coordinate their response to the escalating conflict.
The attacks have also increased pressure on Saudi Arabia’s air-defence capabilities and raised concerns about the vulnerability of civilian infrastructure and energy facilities.
US Warns Conflict Could Escalate Further
The latest US security alert reflects concern that the fighting could extend beyond Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
For Americans in the region, Washington has urged continued monitoring of official information, airline operations and local security conditions.
With Houthi attacks continuing and Egypt considering possible defensive support for Saudi Arabia, the latest developments have added another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile Middle East security environment.
