US Issues Urgent Warning to Citizens in Saudi Arabia Over Missile, Drone Threat
The US is Advising American Citizens in Saudi Arabia to Stay on High Alert due to a heightened threat of missile or drone attacks and urging them to keep a close eye on developments and follow official safety guidelines.
In a security alert issued on October 5, the US mission in Saudi Arabia advised American citizens to keep an ear to the ground for any alerts or guidance issued by Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence that’s basically all they’re saying to pay attention to the locals.
The warning that’s been issued has got everyone on high alert but the US mission says that in reality there hasn’t been any change to their security situation or how they’re operating.
And just to put people’s minds at rest, regular and emergency consular services are still running as usual for US citizens over there.
US Warns Americans in Saudi Arabia Over Missile and Drone Threat
The US mission is also pretty keen that American citizens stay tuned in and keep an ear to the ground in the event of a missile or drone attack – they don’t want anyone caught out.
Americans are being advised to take a good hard look at the US State Department’s travel advisory for Saudi Arabia and consider signing up for the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP) – it lets the US Government send you updates and makes it a whole lot easier for them to get in touch if there’s a problem.
And as a reminder, the mission is also asking citizens to be on the same page as the Saudi authorities follow their instructions and all that.
What Americans Should Do During an Aerial Attack
The US mission has put together some basic safety advice for American citizens who might find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time in an aerial attack.
One of the key things to do is steer clear of glass doors and windows as if those were to get smashed, it could get pretty messy.
Another tip is to steer clear of any debris that’s fallen on the ground and keep an ear on your phone and local media pay attention to what the authorities are saying.
And don’t forget to keep your phone charged, just in case you need to make a call in an emergency.
US Citizens Told to Keep Emergency Contacts Ready
The US Embassy is advising Americans to have their emergency contact numbers on speed dial.
That includes details for the US Embassy in Riyadh and the US consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran.
You can also get in touch with the US Department of State’s Consular Affairs offices from just about anywhere whether you’re calling from overseas, the States or Canada.
Having the numbers to hand can make all the difference if you need help and the usual communication services aren’t working.
Americans Urged to Avoid Demonstrations and Large Gatherings
The security alert is also telling US citizens to keep their wits about them and steer clear of demonstrations and big gatherings.
It probably goes without saying, but you should also think twice about heading to places where there’s a bunch of police already.
US Embassy staff are also warning citizens to be careful around places that are in some way associated with the States.
And if you’re looking to keep a low profile, you might want to avoid doing anything that would draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
US Advises Americans to Monitor Flight Changes
The Embassy is advising US citizens who might have travel plans affected by the security situation to give their airlines a call to find out if their flights are going to be cancelled or delayed.
Rather than relying on what you might hear from other sources, travellers should try to get the info straight from the horse’s mouth with the airlines themselves.
As an added reassurance the US mission is reminding everyone that regular consular services are still up and running.
US Citizens Urged to Follow Saudi Authorities
A key part of the warning is that US citizens should follow the instructions from the Saudi authorities.
That means keeping an eye on the official Saudi Civil Defence alerts on your phone, in the local media or from the US Embassy’s social media channels.
The Embassy is also reminding Americans to stay alert and use your best judgment when making safety decisions based on what you know.
For US citizens who are already in Saudi Arabia, this warning is just a reminder to stay on your toes and keep an ear out for any updates on the security situation.
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US Issues Urgent Warning to Citizens in Saudi Arabia Over Missile, Drone Threat
