The United States is preparing to evacuate some embassy staff and their families from countries in the Gulf region. This includes a possible full evacuation from Saudi Arabia. The decision follows recent attacks by Houthi fighters on Saudi airports and other important places. These attacks have caused deaths, injuries, and flight problems. The US Embassy in Riyadh issued a warning about more possible attacks. King Khalid Airport in Riyadh remains closed. Officials say the move is to protect American personnel. Similar evacuations happened earlier this year because of rising tensions in the area. The situation stays serious as threats continue.
• Who: US State Department and American embassy personnel (staff and families) in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries.
• What: Ordered departure / evacuation of non-emergency personnel and families from the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia (and possible similar steps across the Gulf).
• When: October 21, 2026 (reported and preparing on this date).
• Where: Saudi Arabia (mainly Riyadh) and other Gulf embassies.
• Why: Because of recent Houthi attacks on Saudi airports and infrastructure, rising security risks, and the chance of more attacks.