US embassies issue security alerts across 13 Middle East nations

US embassies across the Middle East have issued a security alert urging American citizens to exercise caution amid Houthi attacks and warnings of rapid escalation.

• The alert, covering 13 countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iraq, and Lebanon, warned hostilities could escalate, causing flight cancellations and airspace closures.
• The alert warned Iran and allied groups could target US interests, companies, and citizens worldwide.
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran lost control of the Strait of Hormuz and cannot move a barrel of oil through it.
• Rubio said Iran sought a "traditional shield" of tens of thousands of missiles and drones to reach a stage of declaring nuclear weapons production.