Saudi air defenses intercepted several Houthi missiles targeting the capital, Riyadh, according to Arab News. The incident occurred as part of a broader escalation in the conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The intercepted missiles were launched from Yemen, with reports indicating they were aimed at strategic locations within Saudi territory.
The Saudi Civil Defence issued early warning alerts for Riyadh and nearby al-Kharj, highlighting the heightened threat level. Human Rights Watch has previously reported that the Houthis are restricting access to essential supplies like food, water, and medicine in the besieged Yemeni city of Hodeida. The latest missile attacks underscore the ongoing volatility in the region.
This is not the first time the Houthis have targeted Saudi infrastructure. In recent months, the rebels have launched multiple attacks on Saudi oil facilities and military installations, prompting increased military responses from Saudi Arabia. Despite these attacks, Saudi oil exports have remained stable, with maritime tracking firms reporting exports near wartime levels. The resilience of Saudi energy infrastructure has been a key factor in maintaining regional energy security.
The conflict, which began in 2015, has resulted in significant humanitarian crises in Yemen, with millions of civilians affected by the war. The recent missile attacks and defensive responses reflect the continued escalation of hostilities, with both sides accused of violating international humanitarian law. The situation remains tense, with no immediate signs of de-escalation.
