Houthi rebels launched a series of missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, prompting immediate security alerts and flight cancellations. The attacks, which occurred in late February 2026, targeted critical infrastructure and heightened regional tensions. Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defense agency confirmed the threat had passed but urged continued vigilance.
The Saudi-led coalition intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh, according to military sources. The missile was destroyed before it could strike its target. This follows a pattern of escalating attacks on Saudi infrastructure, including previous strikes on airports and other strategic locations. The attacks have been attributed to the Houthi group, which is backed by Iran.
The Houthi attacks have drawn condemnation from global leaders, including Islamic scholars and political figures. A Bangladeshi Islamic scholar was among the casualties, highlighting the personal and religious stakes of the conflict. The Saudi government has emphasized the threat to the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina, which are central to Islamic worship.
The United States has not retaliated for the Houthi attacks, raising questions about its regional strategy. Analysts suggest this may reflect a broader shift in U.S. Foreign policy, with reduced direct military involvement in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has intensified its security measures, including deploying advanced defense systems and coordinating with allies to counter the attacks.
The conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels has roots in the 2015 Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen. The war has resulted in significant civilian casualties and humanitarian crises, with both sides accused of violating international law. The recent attacks mark a new phase of escalation, with both sides using increasingly sophisticated weaponry.
The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further conflict. The international community continues to call for a peaceful resolution, but the ongoing tensions underscore the complexity of the region’s geopolitical landscape.
