Washington halts embassy work in Kuwait after drone threats

The United States is suspending operations at its embassy in Kuwait City as the war in the region continues to intensify, the US Department of State said on March 5.

According to a report by CNN, the decision was announced amid growing security concerns tied to the escalating regional conflict.

“Although there have been no reports of injuries among American personnel, the safety of Americans overseas remains the top priority for the US Department of State,” the department said in a statement to the media.

A State Department spokesperson said the move was taken after consultations with the government of Kuwait and was based on security and occupational safety considerations aimed at protecting embassy staff.

The full suspension of embassy operations reflects the high level of risk facing US personnel in the country. The diplomatic mission has reportedly been targeted several times by drones believed to have been launched by Iran.

Before the closure decision, the embassy had already halted all routine consular services and instructed personnel who are not involved in emergency functions, along with their family members, to leave the country. With the embassy now closed, the State Department is expected to withdraw the remaining staff as well.

In a notice issued to US citizens in Kuwait, authorities urged Americans to leave the country if it is safe to do so using commercial flights or other available means of transportation.

Those who are unable to depart were advised to remain where they are.

The notice also said that US citizens requiring emergency assistance — including consular support or information about available departure options — can contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs by phone at +1-202-501-4444 from overseas or +1-888-407-4747 from the US and Canada.

On Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a conversation with Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, during which he expressed gratitude for Kuwait’s “strong response” to attacks and threats from the Iranian regime.

The two officials also discussed ongoing US operations aimed at countering these threats, as well as other developments across the region, according to the State Department.

By Tamilla Hasanova