Smoke and flames were seen near Riyadh airport after Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed to have launched missile and drone strikes on the Saudi capital, according to reports. The attacks came hours after Saudi Arabia issued alerts over a “hostile aerial threat,” with officials surrounding a Qatar Airways plane at King Khalid Airport. No casualties or damage were reported, though black smoke was visible.
The Saudi-led coalition confirmed that Houthi rebels attempted to attack Riyadh with a ballistic missile, which was intercepted. Residents in Riyadh heard an explosion, and the coalition stated the attack was thwarted. The Houthi group said it targeted “sensitive” sites in the capital, escalating tensions between the two sides.
Saudi Arabia has warned of a “massive” response to the attacks, with officials indicating the retaliation will be “sequenced.” Iran’s security chief has also called for an end to the war on all fronts and the lifting of the US naval blockade. The conflict in Yemen has drawn in regional powers, with Iran and Saudi Arabia vying for influence.
The situation highlights the ongoing instability in the region, with the conflict affecting global energy routes and maritime trade. Analysts note the broader implications of the war, which has evolved into a challenge for international security and strategic interests.
