A ballistic missile fired by the Houthis hit near Riyadh’s international airport, triggering air raid alerts and explosions, according to Saudi officials. This marks the first such alert in Riyadh since the escalation of hostilities between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. The attack, which involved both missiles and drones, was claimed by the Houthis as retaliation for an earlier strike in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa.
Residents in Riyadh were initially evacuated as explosions were reported, though authorities later confirmed the area was safe. The Saudi-led coalition stated that its defenses intercepted the missile, preventing a direct hit on the city. The incident has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The Houthis, backed by Iran, have been intensifying attacks on Saudi territory, with recent strikes targeting oil infrastructure and military sites. This latest attack underscores the growing intensity of the conflict, which has already led to significant regional instability. Analysts warn that the situation could worsen if both sides continue their current trajectories.
