US issues security alert to citizens over heightened tensions in Middle East

The United States has warned its citizens in the Middle East to remain vigilant as tensions in the region intensify.

In a security alert issued on Saturday, the US Department of State said the situation remained “complex” and could deteriorate unexpectedly.

The department cited renewed hostilities between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, including attacks targeting Saudi territory and civilian airports.

“This military conflict has the potential to escalate rapidly,” the advisory said.

Americans in the region were warned of possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and other disruptions as the fighting intensifies.

The advisory came after Saudi Arabia reported a missile attack targeting Riyadh, its capital.

The Houthis have stepped up attacks against Saudi Arabia following the renewed fighting in Yemen, where the group is battling forces backed by Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia has responded with airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.

The latest confrontation marks a new escalation in a conflict that had been relatively subdued since a truce in 2022.

WHY THE TENSIONS ARE RISING

The Houthis, an Islamic and military group in Yemen, and Saudi-backed forces have resumed fighting after years of relative calm.

The Iran-aligned group has expanded its military operations in Yemen and along the Red Sea coast, while Saudi Arabia has increased its support for Yemen’s internationally recognised government.

The Houthis have also targeted Saudi interests in retaliation for the kingdom’s military operations.

The latest attacks have included missile and drone strikes against locations in Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has intercepted some of the projectiles and carried out retaliatory strikes against Houthi positions.

The escalation is particularly significant because of the Houthis’ proximity to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key shipping route linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.

The renewed fighting also comes against the backdrop of broader tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States, increasing concerns that the Yemen conflict could draw in other regional actors.

Saudi authorities recently issued an air raid alert in Riyadh amid reports of an incoming attack, marking the first such alert in the capital since the renewed fighting in Yemen.

The US State Department said the broader regional tensions could also expose American diplomatic facilities, businesses and other interests to attacks.

It warned that Iran and groups aligned with Tehran could target US interests outside the Middle East as well.

The department advised Americans to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, remain alert around locations associated with the US and follow instructions from local authorities.

It also asked travellers to monitor airline and airport operations and enrol in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for security updates.