“U.S. ordering some staff to depart Saudi Arabia amid Houthi strikes”

Key points

• The U.S. State Department issued an ordered departure for non-emergency government employees and their families in Saudi Arabia.
• The move follows attacks on Saudi targets by Iran-backed Houthi militants and heightened security concerns.
• Other Gulf embassies announced restricted operations but did not implement full ordered departures.
• Houthi attacks have targeted airports and oil facilities, causing casualties and travel disruptions.
• The broader regional risk includes proximity to Bab al-Mandab and potential oil-shipping disruptions.