On Sunday morning local time (September 20th), the US embassies in the Middle East issued security alerts to American citizens in those regions. The US State Department also issued a warning, stating that given the potential rapid deterioration of the situation in Iran, American citizens should reconsider whether to travel to the Middle East.
In a statement posted on social media platform X on Saturday evening Eastern Time, the US State Department emphasized that due to the tense situation in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex and unpredictable escalations could occur. Americans currently in the Middle East were advised to maintain high vigilance and be aware of possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions.
The statement highlighted that Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen have engaged in hostile actions against Saudi Arabia, including attacks targeting civilian airports.
“There is a possibility of a rapid escalation of this military conflict,” the statement warned. “Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to or through the region.”
The statement also pointed out that US diplomatic facilities, including those located outside the Middle East, have become targets of attacks. Iran and its supported groups may also target other US interests overseas or locations related to Americans, including American businesses and other institutions.
At the same time, US embassies in Israel, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Jordan, Bahrain, the UAE, and Qatar also issued security alerts, urging American citizens in those countries to be mindful of potential threats.
Last Saturday, near a major airport in the Saudi capital Riyadh, flames and a huge column of smoke were seen. Hours later, the Houthi militants released a statement claiming responsibility for using missiles and drones to attack a “sensitive” location in Riyadh.
In recent weeks, the Houthi militants have launched a series of attacks, including ground offensives around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, occupying the key port of Mocha in Yemen and nearby islands to control this strategically important chokepoint at the entrance of the Red Sea.
Ten days ago, Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline was also targeted by drones, leading to the temporary closure of this crucial oil transportation route and subsequent increase in international oil prices.