Saudi air defence intercepts missile as Riyadh faces fresh security alert. (Img: Pinterest)
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has reported a major security alert after its air defence systems intercepted a ballistic missile allegedly fired by Yemen’s Houthi group towards Riyadh. The incident has become a major international concern as it marks the first reported air raid alert in the Saudi capital since the latest escalation between Houthi forces and Saudi-backed groups.
The development has increased fears of a wider Middle East conflict, with concerns growing over civilian safety, regional stability, oil supply routes and the security of one of the world’s most important energy regions.
The Saudi-led coalition said Houthi forces launched a ballistic missile towards Riyadh during early morning hours, but the projectile was detected and destroyed by Saudi air defence systems.
Coalition spokesperson Major-General Turki al-Maliki said additional attempts to target civilian locations and infrastructure in areas including Bisha, Taif, Farasan and Yanbu were also prevented.
Saudi authorities activated emergency warning systems across several regions after identifying possible aerial threats. The alert created panic among residents, especially in Riyadh, where such warnings have not been issued during the recent period of relative calm.
The situation intensified after residents reported hearing explosions in Riyadh. A large cloud of black smoke was later seen near King Khalid International Airport. Emergency response teams reached the area, while Saudi authorities said there were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.
Flight operations at the airport were reportedly affected temporarily, with tracking platforms showing delays and disruptions following the security alert. The incident has once again highlighted concerns over protecting key civilian facilities and energy infrastructure from missile and drone attacks.
Yemen’s Houthi group claimed responsibility for the operation, saying it targeted sensitive locations in Riyadh and facilities connected to Saudi energy giant Aramco in Yanbu.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed that ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones were used during the operation. The group said the attack was carried out in response to Saudi military actions in Yemen. Saudi authorities, however, accused the Houthis of targeting civilian infrastructure and threatening regional security.
The latest confrontation comes amid renewed fighting between Houthi forces and the Saudi-backed internationally recognised Yemeni government. Military clashes have intensified in several parts of Yemen, including Marib, Taiz, Lahj, Al-Jawf and Al-Bayda.
Saudi-backed forces said they had prevented a Houthi infiltration attempt in southern Marib, while both sides reported casualties during recent clashes. The escalation is being viewed as one of the most serious increases in violence since the April 2022 truce reduced fighting in Yemen.
The conflict has raised fresh concerns over the security of Red Sea shipping routes and global energy supplies. The Houthis have expanded their influence around strategically important locations near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial maritime passage connecting the Red Sea with international trade routes.
Any disruption in this region could impact shipping costs, oil transportation and global energy prices. Saudi Arabia’s role as one of the world’s largest oil exporters makes the security of its ports, pipelines and maritime routes a major international concern.
The reported attacks drew reactions from regional and international organisations. Jordan condemned the reported strikes and expressed support for Saudi Arabia.
The United Nations and Gulf Cooperation Council also criticised attacks targeting civilian areas and energy infrastructure, warning that continued military escalation could threaten regional stability. International officials have urged all sides to avoid further escalation and protect civilian populations.
The United States issued a security advisory asking citizens in the Middle East to remain cautious amid increasing regional tensions. American officials warned that continued Houthi attacks and military developments could lead to travel disruptions and rapidly changing security conditions.
