The Trump administration now assesses that Houthi attacks pose a broad and escalating threat to Americans in the Middle East, prompting an unprecedented decision by the State Department to issue urgent warnings across a dozen countries in the region, U.S. officials told ABC News.

This heightened concern comes as Saudi Arabia has struggled to defend against deadly missile and drone strikes on energy and aviation targets, underscoring the growing regional instability. The U.S. has been notifying its citizens in Saudi Arabia about the risk of Houthi attacks for weeks.

U.S. embassies in Bahrain, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE issued coordinated security alerts on Sunday, advising Americans that hostilities involving Houthi militants have the potential to escalate rapidly beyond currently impacted areas. The U.S. mission to Yemen and its virtual embassy for Iran also issued identical messages.

State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary for Press Edgar Vasquez stated that these alerts are part of a proactive effort to ensure Americans are aware of potential risks and urged them to heed official guidance. The warnings highlight the broadening scope of the threat posed by the Houthi rebels.

Earlier this month, an attack on Riyadh's main international airport claimed 13 lives, including an American citizen, illustrating the deadly potential of Houthi strikes. The U.S. embassy in Saudi Arabia has been issuing near-daily alerts, advising Americans about potential attacks on airports, airspace closures, and travel disruptions.

Saudi Arabia itself has shown signs of growing alarm, postponing a major annual investment conference, often referred to as "Davos in the Desert," due to the prevailing security environment. This decision reflects the significant impact Houthi attacks are having on regional stability and economic activity.

Despite significant air and ground operations carried out by Saudi-led forces against the Houthis in Yemen, these campaigns have not curtailed incoming attacks. Houthi spokespeople have claimed responsibility for multiple strikes against Saudi targets, indicating a persistent and challenging threat.

The situation has led Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman to appeal to President Trump for increased support in confronting the Houthi insurgency, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic efforts to manage the escalating regional crisis.