[Betty Jo]

Warning in red on DRUDGE right now re leaving Saudi!

[swarthyguy]

Mentioned diplos, and private contractors, too.

Everybody out of the pool!

[TaxRelief]

Nonessential American diplomats and the families of all U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia should leave, the State Department said Wednesday, stepping up its warnings about risks in the country.

Private U.S. citizens should consider leaving as well, the department said. And Americans making plans to go to Saudi Arabia were advised to defer any such travel in light of "the potential for further terrorist activities."

The departure of U.S. officials and family members was not ordered, but was voluntary. Expenses were to be paid by the U.S. government.

Americans who travel to Saudi Arabia or remain there despite the warning were told to register with the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh or the consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran so arrangements can be made to keep them up to date.

They say it's because of terrorist threats--but this type of withdrawal usually precedes BIGGER things.