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U.S. Embassy in Riyadh Hit by Iran Drones
The United States Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was struck by drones early Tuesday, March 3, 2026, amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
According to initial reports, two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) hit the embassy compound. The impact reportedly damaged part of the roof and an outer section of the chancery building.
Saudi authorities confirmed that the strike caused a limited fire and minor structural damage. No injuries were reported, as the compound was largely empty during the early morning hours.
U.S. officials have indicated that the drones appear to be Iranian-manufactured “Shahed” systems. However, no group has formally claimed responsibility for the attack.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions following recent joint U.S.-Israeli military operations targeting Iran.
Security Measures Announced
Following the attack, the U.S. Mission in Saudi Arabia suspended all routine and emergency American Citizen Services appointments in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhahran for March 3.
A shelter-in-place advisory was issued for U.S. citizens in the Kingdom. The U.S. State Department also urged Americans to avoid visiting the embassy until further notice and restricted non-essential travel to certain military facilities in the region.
Wider Regional Impact
The Riyadh strike was not an isolated event. Reports suggest that other U.S.-linked sites across the Middle East also faced drone or missile threats.
In Bahrain, a U.S. air base was reportedly targeted. In Kuwait, the U.S. Embassy compound was said to have been hit. In Iraq, a drone attack targeted a U.S. military base near Erbil airport.
U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the developments, stating that a response is expected soon. He told reporters that the nature of any retaliation would become clear shortly.
U.S. citizens in the region have been advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security alerts and updates.
Further official statements are awaited as the situation continues to develop.
