US State Department denies Gulf-wide evacuation plan, says ordered departure applies only to Saudi Arabia

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US State Department on Wednesday rejected reports that it was preparing to order the departure of some personnel and their family members from US embassies in the Gulf, saying the measure applied only to Saudi Arabia.

"This is inaccurate," agency spokesman Tommy Pigott said on US social media company X, following media reports.

"The US Department of State issued an ordered departure for non-emergency US government employees and their family members in Saudi Arabia only," he said.

Pigott cited hostilities by the Yemeni Houthi group against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure that have resulted in civilian casualties and significant travel disruptions.

"The safety and security of Department personnel and their families remain our highest priority, and we will continue to take all necessary steps to protect and support them," he added.

Diyar Güldoğan