“Consider Leaving If Safe”; U.S. Urges Americans In Saudi Arabia
The United States Embassy in Riyadh has issued a security alert urging American citizens in Saudi Arabia to consider leaving the country as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, warning of ongoing missile and drone threats.
In the alert released on Sunday, the embassy said it was closely monitoring developments in the region and advised Americans to evaluate their safety and departure options.
“We are monitoring the situation in the Middle East closely and will keep you updated so you can make decisions about your safety,” the embassy said in the advisory.
It added that the U.S. government stands ready to support citizens seeking to leave the region, stressing that their safety remains a top priority.
“If you want to leave the Middle East, the U.S. government is ready to assist by providing you the latest information about the departure options available,” the statement said.
The embassy emphasized that “President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and the Department of State have no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens.”
Officials encouraged Americans to take advantage of available commercial travel options out of the country if it is safe to do so.
“Saudi airspace remains open with frequent air traffic restrictions to address continued missile and drone threats,” the statement said.
The embassy added that major airports in the country, including those in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, are still operating.
“Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports remain open and operational, but travelers are advised to check their flight status directly with the airline due to possible delays and cancellations,” the alert said.
For Americans who decide not to leave, the embassy advised taking precautionary measures and preparing for possible shelter-in-place situations.
“If you choose to not take advantage of available commercial departure options, you should be prepared to shelter in place in a secure location within your residence or another safe building,” the statement said.
The advisory also urged citizens to maintain essential supplies and stay alert.
“Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items,” the embassy said, while urging Americans to “remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ instructions, and review the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.”
The embassy further asked citizens to monitor their communications for updates as the situation evolves.
“Please continue to check your email for additional information or last-minute changes,” it added.
It was earlier reported that the governing body of global motorsport, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), confirmed that the upcoming races in the Middle East would not take place as scheduled, citing the worsening security situation in the region.
In an official statement released on Sunday, the FIA announced that the Bahrain Grand Prix and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix have been cancelled for April following careful evaluation of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
According to the FIA, alternative plans were considered but ultimately ruled out.
It was reported that the U.S. evacuated personnel from its embassy in Riyadh following sustained attacks by Iran targeting Saudi Arabia, raising fresh concerns about escalating tensions across the Middle East.
