(Photo courtesy of Anadolu)
WASHINGTON – The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia has issued a security warning to American citizens amid escalating tensions involving Yemen’s Houthi group, citing potential attacks on civilian airports and critical infrastructure.
In a security advisory issued Tuesday, the embassy warned that Houthi-related hostilities could pose serious risks to travelers, including possible airport attacks, airspace closures, flight cancellations and other disruptions.
The embassy said previous attacks on civilian airports and essential infrastructure had resulted in casualties and significant interruptions to travel.
It also cautioned that the security situation could deteriorate rapidly and extend beyond areas directly affected by the hostilities.
“US citizens should be aware of potential attacks on airports, airspace closures, flight cancellations, and travel disruptions. Please take extreme caution if you choose to use airports in Saudi Arabia,” the embassy said.
The warning came as the Saudi-led military coalition announced Tuesday that it had intercepted and destroyed a drone allegedly launched by the Houthis toward southern Saudi Arabia.
However, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree denied that the group had conducted any military operation against Saudi territory or targeted the Mecca region that day.
The conflicting statements emerged amid renewed tensions between the Iran-aligned Houthi movement and the Saudi-led coalition, which backs Yemen’s internationally recognized government.
Saudi Arabia has led a military coalition against the Houthis since March 2015, following the group’s takeover of Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and other territories in 2014.
The US Embassy urged American nationals in Saudi Arabia to exercise heightened caution, particularly when traveling through airports, and remain informed about security developments and possible changes to flight operations.
