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Iran hits US Embassy in Riyadh as Washington closes diplomatic mission

By The South Asia Times

RIYADH - The US Embassy in Riyadh came under a drone attack early Tuesday, Saudi authorities said, prompting Washington to temporarily close its diplomatic mission in the kingdom and issue a shelter-in-place order for American personnel.

According to Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry, two drones struck the embassy compound in the capital, causing a limited fire and minor structural damage. No casualties were reported.

The attack follows escalating regional tensions after joint US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran that assassinated senior Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Tehran has since launched missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and US military assets across the Gulf.

In a security alert, the US Embassy announced it would close on Tuesday, canceling all routine and emergency American Citizen Services appointments. A shelter-in-place directive remains in effect for US missions in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran.

“The US Mission to Saudi Arabia recommends American citizens in the Kingdom shelter in place immediately,” the embassy said, urging people to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and to monitor official updates.

US officials also advised citizens to review travel plans due to potential disruptions and to avoid approaching embassy compounds until further notice.

The incident marks a significant escalation in the widening confrontation between Iran, Israel, and the United States, raising concerns about the security of diplomatic facilities and energy infrastructure across the Middle East.