Israel-Iran-US War: Two drones struck the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia's Riyadh early Tuesday (3 March), triggering an explosion and sending plumes of smoke from the complex. Saudi Arabia said the attack caused a “limited fire” and minor damage.
The drone strike prompted the US to issue a new shelter-in-place order for Riyadh and Jeddah, while maintaining one for Dhahran in the eastern province. The State Department has also urged American citizens to leave countries across the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia.
This development comes a day after the US Embassy compound in Kuwait was struck. Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry confirmed the news and, in a statement on X, said that the US embassy in Riyadh was hit by two drones, according to initial estimates, and caused a “limited fire” and minor material damage to the building.
Donald Trump reacts to latest drone attack
Speaking to NewsNation, US President Donald Trump warned Iran of more aggressive counter strikes and said, "You'll find out soon what the retaliation will be." He made this remark while referring both to the Embassy strike and to the deaths of US military personnel in the ongoing confrontation with Iran.
Eyewitnesses reported a loud blast and flames at the embassy early on Tuesday morning. Black smoke was seen emanating from Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter, which houses foreign missions. Reuters reported that no injuries occurred as the building was empty in the early morning hours.
US Embassy in Riyadh issues security alert
Following this tragedy, the US Embassy in Riyadh issued a security alert urging US nationals to avoid “non-essential travel to any military installations in the region.” The US Embassy in Riyadh issued a “shelter in place” notification for Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran.
“We advise all U.S. citizens to maintain a personal safety plan. Crises can happen unexpectedly while traveling or living abroad, and a good plan helps you think through potential scenarios and determine in advance the best course of action,” the alert said.
Urging all travellers to review the most recent security alerts, the Embassy said, “Review any travel plans in case of disruptions, and make appropriate decisions to keep themselves and their families safe."
Emergency contact numbers
Emergency contact numbers are provided below:
- Unified Emergency number (Police, Firefighters, traffic police, and others): 911
- Police: 999
- Highway security: 996
- Ambulance: 997
The Embassy and Consulate General contact numbers:
- Riyadh: +966-11-835-4000
- Jeddah: +966-12-220-5000
- Dhahran: +966-13-839-5700
To contact the Bureau of Consular Affairs, dial the numbers provided below:
