Accra:Washington US State Department spokesman Tommy Piggott has refuted reports suggesting a widespread evacuation of US embassies in Gulf countries, specifying that only Saudi Arabia is affected due to escalating activities by the Houthi group.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Piggott clarified in a post on the “X” platform that the State Department has instructed US government employees, whose presence is not essential, along with their family members, to exit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This directive comes in response to the increase in hostilities by the Iranian-backed Houthi group.

Piggott further noted that the Houthi group has intensified its actions against Saudi Arabia by initiating attacks on civilian airports and other crucial infrastructure, leading to civilian casualties and significant travel disruptions. He reiterated that the safety and security of State Department staff and their families remain a top priority, and all necessary steps will be taken to ensure their protection.

The US State Department’s decision to evacuate some diplomats and their families from Saudi Arabia follows a series of attacks targeting the Kingdom. The Department’s statement highlighted the severity of the Houthi attacks, which have caused civilian harm and disrupted critical infrastructure.