Escalation in Yemen Conflict: Missile Attack on Riyadh and Growing Tensions
Cairo – Saudi Arabia confirmed on Saturday that Yemen’s Houthi rebels attempted a ballistic missile attack on Riyadh, marking the first such assault on the capital since fighting intensified with the Tehran-backed group. The Saudi-led coalition, engaged in conflict with the Houthis, reported intercepting the missile attempt that occurred at dawn. Residents in Riyadh heard an explosion and later noticed a smoke plume near the airport. There were no reports of casualties or damage.
The coalition’s statement included attempts on civilian infrastructure in Yanbu, Taif, Baysh, and Farasan, which were thwarted. It provided no additional specifics. Earlier, the Houthis claimed they targeted ‘sensitive sites’ in Riyadh and Aramco facilities in Yanbu, reporting ‘massive fires’ without evidence. Aramco, the world’s largest oil company, has not commented.
Amid escalating conflict, Yemen’s Houthi forces are using cruise and ballistic missiles and drones in attacks, according to Houthi military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree. Saudi Arabia’s targeting of Sanaa in Yemen was unverified. The Associated Press couldn’t independently verify these claims.
The situation is deteriorating, affecting global markets, particularly given the proximity to key shipping routes. On Thursday, debris from an intercepted Houthi drone caused the first civilian casualty, killing a Yemeni resident in Saudi Arabia. On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of attempting to attack Mecca with a drone, declaring the area’s security a ‘red line.’ The Houthis denied this accusation.
Saudi Arabia faces challenges with missile interceptor supplies, seeking air defense support from France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt. The conflict within Yemen has escalated, with Houthis seizing the port city of Mokha and islands on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This enhances their ability to monitor passing ships, though they claim only to target Saudi vessels.
Fighting in Yemen signifies a return to civil war after a period of relative calm. The United States has maintained no current conflict with the Houthis, despite being a close ally to Saudi Arabia.