US warns of rapid Middle East escalation following Houthi attack on Riyadh

The US State Department warned that the military conflict has the potential to escalate rapidly, advising American citizens to reconsider travel to the region. The warning followed loud explosions in Riyadh and reports of a fire at an Aramco fuel tank. The Saudi-led coalition confirmed it intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis. The Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Saree, claimed responsibility for the operations, stating they targeted sensitive sites in Riyadh and Aramco facilities in Yanbu using drones and missiles. US President Donald Trump unexpectedly returned to the White House from Camp David, though no official explanation was provided. While the US reportedly refused a Saudi request to strike the Houthis, the State Department confirmed the approval of a $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Riyadh to help deter current and future threats.