Riyadh (Rajeev Sharma): The US Mission to Saudi Arabia has urged American citizens across the Middle East to remain on high alert amid concerns over possible armed attacks by Iranian-supported Houthi forces and reported Iranian efforts to target US government officials in the region.
In a security advisory issued on November 7, 2026, the mission warned that escalating hostilities could lead to flight cancellations, airspace restrictions and wider travel disruptions. Americans travelling to or from the region have been advised to keep track of airline and airport updates and prepare alternative travel arrangements.
The advisory identified road, rail and bus services as possible alternatives if air travel becomes difficult. It listed Saudi Arabia Railways, SAT Transportation and SAPTCO as transport options, while asking travellers to check directly with the respective operators for current schedules and availability.
The US Mission said land border crossings across the kingdom, including the King Fahd Causeway connecting Saudi Arabia with Bahrain, were operating. Roads and highways in and around Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhahran were also reported to be open.
It further noted that international airports in Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates remained operational at the time of the advisory. However, travellers were advised to verify airport conditions directly before making their journeys.
The warning referred to previous Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia, including strikes targeting civilian airports and critical infrastructure that resulted in civilian casualties and significant disruption to travel. It cautioned that the security situation could deteriorate quickly.
The mission also raised concerns that Iran and groups aligned with it could target American interests beyond the immediate conflict zone. US businesses, institutions and other locations linked to American citizens were among the potential targets identified in the advisory.
Americans in the region have been urged to stay informed about developments, monitor transport services and maintain contingency plans in case the security situation changes.
