The US Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo: Brooks Kraft LLC/Corbis via Getty Images)
US Embassy in Saudi Arabia issues third security alert
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- The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia issued its third consecutive daily security alert following Houthi attacks targeting civil aviation.
- US personnel now require special approval to use airports in Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah.
- Weekend strikes on King Khalid International Airport resulted in 14 deaths and 320 injuries.
The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia renewed its security advisory on Monday for the third consecutive day as Houthi forces continue targeting aviation infrastructure across the Kingdom.
Following initial security warnings issued on Oct. 10 and 11, the embassy’s latest alert on Oct. 12 highlights additional strikes on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and a targeted attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on Sunday.
Under the updated security protocol, US government employees in Saudi Arabia must obtain special authorization prior to using King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, as well as major airports in Jeddah and Dammam.
Travel advisories updated
The embassy urged US citizens throughout the Kingdom to exercise "extreme caution" when traveling through major airports, warning of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and severe travel delays.
Travelers were advised to verify flight statuses directly with commercial carriers and airports, or utilize ground transit alternatives such as private cars, trains, and buses.
Additionally, US personnel remain prohibited from traveling within 20 miles (32 kilometers) of the Yemen border.
Special travel clearance remains mandatory for US government staff visiting the southern provinces of Jizan, Asir, and Najran, alongside the cities of Qatif, Yanbu, and Taif.
The embassy instructed all American citizens in the country to maintain heightened vigilance, monitor local media outlets, and follow instructions from Saudi authorities during potential aerial attacks.
The advisory comes in the wake of escalating Houthi attacks on civilian aviation facilities.
Official and diplomatic sources confirmed that weekend strikes on the airport in Riyadh left 14 people dead and 320 injured.
The Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen's internationally recognized government blamed the Houthis for the strikes and promised a firm response.
