Washington is ordering some diplomatic staff to depart Saudi Arabia as tensions escalate in the Middle East following a series of attacks and retaliatory strikes between Iran and the United States and Israel. The move, first reported by The New York Times, comes as oil prices surge past $110 a barrel and concerns grow about a prolonged conflict.
The State Department has not publicly disclosed the number of personnel affected by the order, but officials indicated the decision was made due to increasing security risks in the region. This follows a recent drone strike targeting the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which caused a “limited fire” and minor damage, according to the Saudi Defense Ministry. The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait was also reportedly attacked, leading to its closure until further notice.
Iranian Attacks Expand, Targeting Key Infrastructure
Iran has significantly broadened its targets in recent days, extending attacks beyond military installations to include critical infrastructure and diplomatic facilities. In addition to the strikes on the U.S. Embassies in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, Iran has targeted energy facilities in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and has attacked several ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. These attacks have contributed to a sharp increase in global oil and natural gas prices, with crude oil currently trading above $110 per barrel.
The escalation began on February 28th following the collapse of talks regarding Iran’s nuclear program, prompting a joint military campaign by the U.S. And Israel against Iran. That campaign resulted in the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, further fueling the conflict. The U.S. Has indicated that operations are likely to last four to five weeks, but President Donald Trump has stated a willingness to continue military action for a longer duration.
Saudi Arabia Warns Iran Against Further Attacks
Saudi Arabia has directly warned Iran to cease its attacks, threatening potential retaliation. According to four sources familiar with the matter, Riyadh communicated to Tehran that while it favors a diplomatic resolution to Iran’s conflict with the United States, continued attacks on the kingdom and its energy sector could compel Saudi Arabia to respond in kind. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan reportedly spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday, March 6th, to convey this message.
The kingdom has maintained contact with Tehran through its ambassador since the U.S. And Israeli military campaign began. Saudi Arabia has also stated its willingness to consider mediation efforts aimed at de-escalation and a negotiated settlement, emphasizing that it has not permitted the U.S. To use its airspace or territory for strikes against Iran. Yet, Prince Faisal indicated that Saudi Arabia would be forced to allow U.S. Forces to use its bases for military operations if Iranian attacks persist.
Intercepted Drones and Regional Security Alerts
Despite the warnings, Saudi Arabia reported intercepting eight drones that entered its airspace overnight. Al Arabiya English reported that the kingdom also thwarted an attempt to attack the Diplomatic Quarter area in Riyadh. The U.S. State Department has urged U.S. Citizens to leave more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries due to safety risks, and many nations have initiated evacuations, though airspace closures are hindering departures.
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem issued a security alert on March 7, 2026, updating its guidance for American citizens in the region. The alert advises U.S. Citizens to remain vigilant and follow official instructions.
What to Watch Next
The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether diplomatic efforts can de-escalate the conflict or if the region will be locked into a prolonged period of instability. The duration of the U.S. And Israeli military campaign, and Iran’s response, will be key factors in shaping the future of the region. The impact on global energy markets and international shipping will also continue to be closely monitored.
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