US pulls diplomats and families from Middle East posts as Houthi attacks escalate

The United States is moving diplomats and their families from multiple Middle Eastern posts due to growing fears of regional escalation, sources say. The departures follow increased Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. The State Department ordered non-emergency personnel and families out of Saudi Arabia, while quietly adjusting staffing at embassies in Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, and Lebanon. Many families had only recently returned after being evacuated during the Iran war. Diplomats report chaotic conditions, with limited financial support and poor communication from Washington. The American Foreign Service Association says families are being told to leave without confirmed housing assistance or per diem allowances, causing frustration and anger.