US orders diplomats to leave Saudi Arabia as Houthi attacks escalate; Yemen casualties rise

The United States has ordered the departure of some diplomats and families of U.S. government employees from Saudi Arabia due to an escalation in Houthi attacks targeting the region. The directive, issued by the State Department around October 21-22, 2026, cites increased hostilities by Iranian-backed Houthis against Saudi Arabia, including strikes on civilian airports and critical infrastructure.

These attacks have resulted in civilian casualties and significant travel disruptions. A recent strike on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 22, 2026, killed two people and injured eight others. This follows a deadly attack on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport on October 10, 2026, which claimed 12 lives.

The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh has also issued security alerts, warning of potential further attacks and advising heightened caution for those using Saudi airports. The decision to withdraw non-emergency personnel underscores concerns about the rapidly escalating nature of the conflict and its impact on regional stability.