Drone attack on US embassy in Riyadh; Trump promises to retaliate

RIYADH: The US embassy building in the Saudi’s capital Riyadh was damaged in an Iranian drone attack. Two drones targeted the embassy early Tuesday morning. The building suffered only minor damages. Footage of flames and smoke bellowing from the embassy was released following the attack. A Saudi defense ministry spokesman said in a statement that initial assessments confirmed that the attack targeted the US diplomatic mission in Riyadh.

Officials said four drones targeting diplomatic areas in Riyadh were downed by air defense systems. The US embassy in Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran has ordered a shelter-in-place for American citizens as a precautionary measure following the attack. Non-essential travel to military bases in the region has been restricted.

Authorities have advised people to stay indoors, be aware of their surroundings, avoid demonstrations, gatherings and areas with heavy police presence, and follow the instructions of local authorities. Officials have advised US citizens to join the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to be contacted in case of emergency.

Officials have also advised people to make sure that they have a US passport. Meantime, US President Donald Trump has said that he will respond to the attack. Trump said that he will soon reveal what the retaliation will be.