US intelligence warns Iran is preparing attacks on Americans in Middle East
A US intelligence memo warns that Iran has advanced preparations for attacks on American citizens and personnel, with plans targeting the Middle East and other countries. Washington is already withdrawing non-essential staff from Saudi Arabia. The memo, dated October 23 and sent by US intelligence coordinator Jay Clayton to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, states Tehran's efforts have reached an "advanced stage." The State Department ordered non-essential personnel and families to leave Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, with further regional withdrawals planned. The US updated travel advisories for over a dozen countries on Saturday, citing threats from Iran-backed Houthi militants. Attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz are increasing amid the US-Israel-Iran war, and the conflict is affecting President Donald Trump's approval ratings ahead of November 3 congressional elections.