NIGERIA TV INFO — INTERNATIONAL SECURITY

US Embassy in Riyadh Hit by Drones as Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz, Regional Tensions Soar

The United States Embassy in Riyadh has been struck by two drones following Iran’s announcement of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, in a dramatic escalation of the widening Middle East conflict that has reportedly claimed more than 600 lives across Iran and Lebanon.

Saudi authorities confirmed that the drones hit the US diplomatic compound in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, causing a limited fire and minor structural damage. No immediate casualties were reported.

In the aftermath of the attack, the US Embassy cancelled all routine and emergency consular services across its missions in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran. Staff members and visitors were ordered to “shelter in place” as security measures were heightened.

“Avoid the Embassy until further notice due to an attack on the facility,” the mission said in an official statement, urging American citizens in the Kingdom to maintain updated personal safety plans.

The drone strike comes amid intensified military operations by Israeli forces targeting Tehran and Beirut. Reports indicate that strikes have hit strategic sites in both capitals, including Iran’s state broadcaster, further inflaming tensions in the region.

In a related development, the United States has updated its travel advisory for Iraq, directing non-emergency government personnel to depart the country due to deteriorating security conditions. US diplomatic staff in Baghdad have also been barred from using the city’s international airport over heightened security risks.

Iran’s decision to shut down the Strait of Hormuz — a critical global oil transit route — has triggered fears of major disruptions to international energy markets and global shipping, raising concerns about the potential economic fallout worldwide.

The situation remains fluid, with international observers warning that further escalation could destabilize the broader Middle East region.