The United States has ordered nonessential diplomats and family members of US government employees to leave Saudi Arabia due to growing security risks, the US State Department said Sunday.
The decision comes as Washington continues to reduce its diplomatic presence in parts of the Gulf amid rising regional tensions.
The United States began withdrawing nonessential personnel from several Gulf countries last Monday, three days after the outbreak of the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Earlier in the week, the US Embassy in Riyadh approved voluntary departures for staff members.
The move followed a drone attack targeting the embassy in Riyadh on Tuesday. Iranian drones struck the compound, sparking a fire that caused damage to embassy facilities.
Officials said the evacuation measures are part of broader efforts to ensure the safety of US personnel as security conditions in the region remain volatile.
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