U.S. Ordering Some Government Staff to Depart Saudi Arabia, Reducing Military Footprint in Middle East

Updated on: October 21, 2026 / 7:28 PM EDT / CBS News

U.S. Ordering Some Government Staff to Depart Saudi Arabia, Reducing Military Footprint in Middle East

TL;DR

  • U.S. State Department orders non-essential embassy personnel and families to depart Saudi Arabia.
  • U.S. military is reducing its presence in the Middle East due to regional threats from Houthis and Iran.
  • Houthi militants, supported by Iran, have escalated attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting airports and oil facilities.
  • Recent Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia have caused civilian casualties and travel disruptions.
  • The conflict's proximity to the Bab al-Mandab Strait poses risks to global oil flow.
  • Yemeni government warns of expanding Houthi threats and seeks international assistance.
  • The UK has offered support to Saudi Arabia; President Trump has not ruled out strikes on the Houthis.