U.S. pulls diplomats from Saudi Arabia as renewed Iran strikes loom
The U.S. has ordered non-emergency personnel to leave Saudi Arabia amid escalating Houthi attacks and reports of potential U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran. Planning for a short, intensive operation targeting Iranian infrastructure is reportedly underway, though President Trump has not yet authorized the action.
Why it matters
This development signals a significant escalation in regional tensions that could lead to a wider conflict in the Middle East and impact global energy markets.
The U.S. ordered non-emergency government employees and their families to leave Saudi Arabia as Houthi attacks on the kingdom escalate.
The move comes as the U.S. and Israeli militaries have drawn up specific plans for renewed strikes on Iran after next month's midterm elections, according to The New York Times, citing unnamed U.S. officials.
Planning for a "short but intensive" operation is progressing, The Times said.
The developments point to a possible widening of the nearly eight-month war, while U.S. and Iranian negotiators continue talks on Tehran's nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz.
State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott in a post on X said the order applies only to Saudi Arabia, citing increasing attacks by Iran-aligned Houthis on civilian targets. Meanwhile, Reuters reported Washington also plans to withdraw family members from other missions in the region.
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