REGIONAL UPDATE | 26 OCTOBER 2026
Reports of US readiness for renewed strikes on Iran, warnings of wider Iranian retaliation and continuing attacks affecting Saudi Arabia warrant an immediate review of arrangements for employees, dependants and travelling executives.
CNN reports that US forces could launch major operations within 96 hours of receiving a presidential order. This describes reported military readiness, not confirmation that an order has been issued or that strikes will begin within the next four days. Diplomatic efforts continue, including today’s talks involving Saudi, Pakistani, Turkish and Iranian officials. Organisations should nevertheless prepare for the possibility that further escalation could disrupt movement with limited warning.
The implications extend beyond Iran.
Iranian officials have threatened a broader response if renewed attacks take place, including potential action against Gulf communications infrastructure. These remain reported threats, but they reinforce the need to consider communications resilience alongside transport and accommodation. Saudi aviation is already significantly disrupted. Riyadh’s partial reopening on 25 October should not be treated as a return to normal operations. Reuters reports that 86% of scheduled flights at King Khalid International Airport were cancelled between 8 and 25 October.
What organisations should confirm now
People: current locations, dependants, nationalities, travel documents and medical or mobility requirements.
Decisions: who can authorise relocation or departure, and what developments would trigger action.
Movement: viable airports, cross-border eligibility, transport availability and confirmed onward arrangements.
Continuity: accommodation, essential supplies, alternative communications and arrangements for those remaining.
Departure and shelter arrangements should be assessed together. An alternative airport is useful only when the route, entry requirements and onward journey are workable.
Regional expertise. Practical operational support.
From our 24/7 operations centre in Amman, Stratum Global Risk supports organisations and assistance providers with contingency planning, route assessments, secure transportation, cross-border movements and coordinated departures.
Our Arabic and English team combines regional understanding with direct provider relationships and operational oversight throughout delivery. If you have personnel in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere in the Gulf, we can review your existing arrangements, identify practical gaps and develop options around your people and operational requirements.