US Reduces Military Presence in Middle East Amid Houthi Threats
The U.S. is withdrawing personnel from its Middle Eastern posts amid increased Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, State Department officials say.
The U.S. military is scaling back its presence at bases in the Middle East, while the State Department is ordering departures of non-emergency personnel from diplomatic posts, particularly in Saudi Arabia. This decision follows increased threats from the Iran-aligned Houthi movement.
According to U.S. officials, the State Department’s directive affects non-emergency government employees and their families at the embassy in Riyadh. Tommy Pigott, a State Department spokesperson, emphasized that the safety of personnel remains a priority. He stated, “Iranian-supported Houthis have increasingly engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure.”
Reports indicate that U.S. missions in other Gulf states are also adjusting staffing due to the heightened threat level from the Houthis. The U.S. embassy in Riyadh has issued a security alert regarding potential further attacks.
The directive follows a series of Houthi strikes that have resulted in civilian casualties and significant travel disruptions in the region. U.S. officials have indicated a return of some diplomatic personnel to the Middle East after a period of withdrawal due to tensions following attacks on U.S. facilities by Iran.
Saudi Arabia’s military has been actively intercepting Houthi drones and missiles targeting various regions, including oil infrastructure and airports. On Wednesday, Saudi forces reported intercepting at least seven drones, with past attacks claiming lives and causing injuries.
The U.S. has increased its military support for Saudi Arabia through intelligence and targeting assistance, although President Biden has not authorized direct military strikes against the Houthis. Other allies, including the UK and Egypt, have pledged support to Saudi Arabia amidst these escalations.
