Iranian drones targeted the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh early Tuesday, causing minor damage and a limited fire, officials said. The attack follows U.S. and Israeli airstrikes across Iran, killing hundreds and escalating the regional conflict. The strikes directly threaten civilians and destabilize countries across the Gulf and Middle East.
Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry confirmed limited damage at the embassy and urged Americans to avoid the compound. The U.S. State Department ordered the evacuation of non-emergency personnel and families from Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar, Jordan, and the UAE. Embassy attacks follow recent drone strikes on U.S. facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Amazon data centers in the UAE.
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In Iran, explosions rocked Tehran and other cities, including Natanz nuclear enrichment facilities, though the International Atomic Energy Agency said no radiological consequences were expected. Israel also carried out strikes against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, killing at least 52 people. Iran-backed forces launched missiles at Israel, killing 11 and prompting further retaliatory strikes.
The conflict has already killed hundreds in Iran, dozens in Lebanon, and multiple civilians across the Gulf. Six American service members died in Kuwait logistics units, while others were injured in airstrikes and mistaken friendly fire incidents. Regional shipping and oil supplies were disrupted as Iran threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz.
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U.S. President Donald Trump vowed operations could last over a month, stressing a “virtually unlimited supply” of munitions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said strikes targeted leadership and nuclear infrastructure. International organizations warned of massive displacement and called for urgent de-escalation to prevent further civilian casualties.