The United States has ordered the departure of its personnel from Saudi Arabia, citing an escalating threat from Iran‑aligned Houthi rebels. The State Department said the decision follows a rise in Houthi hostilities against the Saudi government.
In a statement, officials noted that the Houthis have been increasingly engaged in attacks that could jeopardise the safety of American staff in the kingdom. The move comes as the conflict in Yemen continues to destabilise the wider region.
While the announcement did not disclose the number of personnel affected or specific locations, it underscored the U.S. concern over the growing influence of the Houthi movement in the Red Sea corridor.
Saudi Arabia remains a key partner for the United States in the Middle East, and the decision reflects broader security worries that have prompted the U.S. to reassess its diplomatic presence in the area.
The U.S. has previously warned that Houthi attacks on shipping lanes could threaten international maritime traffic, prompting further scrutiny of the situation by Washington.
<small>Source: Al Jazeera — read the original story there.</small>