RIYADH (Rajeev Sharma): Tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi movement escalated sharply after a large plume of smoke was seen near Riyadh’s main airport, hours after Saudi authorities issued warnings of a possible aerial attack over the capital.
The Houthis later claimed that they had launched missiles and drones at what they described as “sensitive” sites in Riyadh. The group also said it targeted facilities belonging to Saudi oil giant Aramco in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast.
Saudi Arabia, however, said its air-defence systems intercepted a ballistic missile fired towards Riyadh. The Saudi-led coalition also reported that attempted attacks targeting other locations, including Baish, Taif, Farasan and Yanbu, were thwarted.
Smoke spotted near airport
Images and videos circulating from Riyadh showed thick black smoke rising near King Khalid International Airport. Flames were also reported in the area, with footage appearing to show the smoke close to fuel-storage facilities.
Residents reported hearing explosions before Saudi authorities issued an all-clear. Initial reports did not indicate casualties or significant damage from the attempted attack.
The Saudi Civil Defence had earlier sent emergency alerts to residents of Riyadh and nearby Al-Kharj, advising them to take precautions against a potential aerial threat.
The incident also affected airport operations, with reports of flight delays and cancellations following the security alert.
Houthis cite strikes on Sanaa
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the operation was carried out in response to Saudi attacks on Sanaa, which is controlled by the group.
The latest exchange marks a significant escalation in the current confrontation. Reuters reported that Saturday’s operation was the first reported Houthi strike targeting Riyadh since the latest escalation began in July.
The Houthis have intensified attacks against Saudi targets in recent weeks, including energy infrastructure and shipping routes in the Red Sea.
Regional security concerns grow
The escalation has raised fresh concerns over the security of Saudi energy infrastructure and major shipping routes. The conflict is unfolding alongside wider tensions across West Asia, increasing pressure on countries in the region to strengthen air-defence arrangements.
The United Nations Security Council has condemned continued Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia, particularly those affecting civilian and energy infrastructure, while also criticising the broader military escalation in Yemen.
The United States has separately urged its citizens in the region to exercise heightened caution amid the deteriorating security environment.
For now, Saudi authorities say the missile targeting Riyadh was intercepted, while the Houthis maintain that their missiles and drones struck designated targets. The extent of any damage from the Houthi-claimed operations remains subject to verification.
