US embassies in Saudi Arabia have issued security alerts for American citizens after a series of Houthi attacks on the kingdom’s airspace and shipping lanes.

Officials cautioned that flights could be cancelled, airspace might close and travel plans disrupted, noting the risk of conflict escalating quickly.

The conflict could "escalate rapidly".

The warnings come after a surge of missile and drone strikes launched from Yemen’s Houthi-held eastern provinces, which have repeatedly targeted Saudi commercial flights and oil tankers. The group, which claims to fight for Yemen’s constitutional order, has used low‑cost rockets to reach deep into Saudi territory, prompting a defensive response from the Saudi military.

At the centre of the alerts is the US embassy in Riyadh, where officials briefed American expatriates and foreign‑service staff. The embassy, which also oversees the US consulate in Jeddah, urged travellers to avoid non‑essential travel and to keep in contact with consular services during the crisis.

Saudi Arabia, backed by a US‑led coalition, has been fighting the Houthis since 2015. The coalition has supplied air strikes, intelligence and logistics to Saudi forces. The latest attacks have increased pressure on the coalition’s supply chains and raised fears of a broader regional spill‑over.

The United States, which has supplied weapons and intelligence to the coalition, has not formally declared a stance but has expressed concern over civilian casualties and the potential for escalation. The State Department said it is monitoring the situation closely and will adjust its advisories as required.

Al Jazeera reported that the Houthis have warned of further attacks on the kingdom, signalling a possible intensification of hostilities. The group’s leadership has framed its actions as a defence against what it calls foreign aggression, but critics argue the strikes target commercial infrastructure and threaten civilian life.

While the security alerts focus on immediate safety, analysts note that a sudden escalation could destabilise the already fragile Gulf region, affecting oil markets and international shipping routes. The Red Sea remains a critical artery for global trade, and any disruption could have worldwide economic repercussions.

American citizens abroad are advised to check the US Department of State’s travel advisory website for updates, keep their travel documents handy, and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Airlines operating routes to Saudi Arabia have already begun to assess flight schedules for potential disruptions.

US embassy officials will hold a briefing for American residents in Riyadh later this week to discuss safety protocols and emergency procedures, officials said.