Saudi air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed two drones and two ballistic missiles launched by Yemen’s Houthi militia toward Riyadh early Saturday, according to the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen. The attack occurred near the town of Khamis Mushayt, a key location along the Saudi-Yemen border. Coalition Forces spokesman Col. Turki Al-Maliki confirmed the intercepts in a post on X, stating that the drones targeted the Riyadh area and were neutralized before reaching their destination. Approximately 30 minutes later, additional air defenses intercepted and destroyed the ballistic missiles.
The Houthi group, backed by Iran, has been accused of launching repeated attacks on Saudi territory. The latest strikes highlight the ongoing tensions between the Houthi rebels and the Saudi-led coalition. The United Nations and Yemen’s internationally recognized government have previously called for an end to the violence, urging the Houthi militia to halt attacks on both Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Yemen’s government leader has urged citizens to support military efforts against the rebels, emphasizing the need for national mobilization.
The incident underscores the persistent conflict in the region, with the Houthi militia continuing to challenge Saudi and Yemeni authorities. The Saudi-led coalition has maintained a military presence in Yemen since 2015, aiming to restore government control in the country. As the situation remains volatile, international calls for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions continue to grow.
