Iran has intensified efforts to target US personnel, with lethal plots against American citizens reaching “advanced stages,” according to a memo from Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton. This warning comes after the US reduced staff at its mission in Saudi Arabia due to increasing attacks from Iran-aligned Houthi forces. These assaults are part of an ongoing regional conflict tied to the Iran war and coincide with a rise in attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Clayton’s memo, sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, highlighted intelligence indicating a significant increase in efforts by Iran to target US personnel, particularly in the Middle East and other countries. CIA Director John Ratcliffe received a copy of this memo as well. In response to the rising threats, the State Department has ordered non-emergency government employees and their families to leave missions in Saudi Arabia and is planning similar measures for other missions in the region.
The State Department also updated travel advisories for multiple countries, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, due to heightened risks from Houthi attacks and Iranian plots. Adjustments in embassy staffing are being made based on security concerns and the ongoing Iran war, which has affected President Trump’s approval ratings ahead of the midterm elections.
With information from Reuters
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