Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed to have conducted rocket and drone attacks targeting “sensitive” sites in the Saudi capital of Riyadh. Media reports indicate that a ballistic missile was successfully intercepted. Even earlier in the day, smoke and flames were spotted near the city’s airport.
Coalition forces led by Saudi Arabia have confirmed that the rebels did launch an assault on the capital. Prior to the incident, the Saudi civil defense had issued phone warnings about potential air raids in Riyadh and the neighboring city of Al-Kharj. While at least one explosion was heard, there were no reports of casualties or damage.
The Houthis, who control significant parts of Yemen, have been launching military operations against Saudi Arabia since they announced a naval blockade against Riyadh in July. The most recent attack appears to be a response to an assault directed at Sanaa, Yemen’s capital, which is currently under Houthi control.
