Circuit Wire — a daily news update from the Circuit.
The State Department ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to leave Saudi Arabia, effective October 23, according to a U.S. Mission security alert dated October 25.
The alert cites attacks by Iran-backed Houthis on Saudi Arabia, including civilian airports and critical infrastructure, which it says caused civilian casualties and major travel disruptions. It warns that hostilities could escalate quickly beyond the area now affected. The Travel Advisory for Saudi Arabia remains at Level 3, Reconsider Travel. Gulf News also reported the order, which followed missile and drone attacks on airports.
As of October 25, Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport (RUH) had partially reopened for domestic flights and some international flights on Saudi national carriers. Some flights normally based there operate from Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) in Qassim. Jeddah (JED) and Dammam (DMM) are operating with some delays and cancellations. Our earlier report noted that an October 17 alert had Riyadh operations suspended.
U.S. government employees need Chief of Mission authorization to use any Saudi airport. They may not travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border, and travel to Jizan, Asir, Najran, Qatif, Yanbu and Taif requires special authorization.
The alert lists ground options for travelers, including private car, train and bus services run by Saudi Arabia Railways, SAT Transportation and SAPTCO. All land border crossings, including the King Fahd Causeway to Bahrain, are operational, as are highways around Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhahran. Airports in Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Qatar and the UAE are also operating, and the embassy asks travelers to confirm status with each airport.
The alert also repeats a legal warning. Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior says filming or sharing information about counter-missile and drone efforts and impact sites carries legal liability. The embassy says U.S. citizens have been detained for photographing government buildings, airports and impact sites.
Emergency consular services remain available to U.S. citizens. The embassy's guidance includes enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, following alerts from Saudi Civil Defense sent by cellular broadcast, and avoiding demonstrations and large gatherings.
Want a weekly roundup of the major stories shaping the security industry? The On The Circuit newsletter is read by more than 12,000 protection professionals.
Spotted something we should cover? Send tips and feedback via circuit-magazine.com.