Houthis Claim Missile, Drone Attacks on Saudi Capital, Fuel Depot Burns Near Riyadh Airport

Yemen's Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for a wave of missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh, and its oil facilities. The claims followed reports of thick smoke and flames rising from a fuel depot near King Khalid International Airport, which caused flight disruptions and prompted authorities to issue air raid alerts to citizens. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with the Saudi government issuing its first such alerts for Riyadh since fighting intensified in July.

Explosions were heard in the capital as firefighters worked to contain the blaze at the fuel depot, which reportedly bore the logo of Saudi Aramco. The Houthi military spokesperson stated that "sensitive sites" in Riyadh were targeted, and the group also claimed attacks on Saudi oil facilities. While Saudi authorities have not yet officially commented on the full extent of the claims, reports indicate that Saudi air defenses intercepted at least one ballistic missile aimed at the capital. The incident has heightened tensions in the region amidst the protracted conflict in Yemen.