Houthis claim missile and drone attacks on Riyadh and Yanbu, Saudi officials report no casualties

Saudi Arabia issued emergency alerts on Saturday after a “hostile aerial threat” was reported, and black smoke was observed at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Flight-tracking data indicated the airport experienced major disruptions, and a fuel truck near the runway was seen burning, according to an AFP journalist.

Saudi civil-defence officials warned residents to stay indoors and avoid windows, but later said no casualties or damage were recorded. The Houthi movement subsequently claimed responsibility, saying cruise and ballistic missiles and drones were used against “sensitive sites” in Riyadh and facilities of the state oil company in Yanbu. Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree also alleged that Saudi forces had attempted to strike the Houthi-controlled capital, Sana'a, without providing details.

The claims could not be independently verified. The attacks follow a July declaration by the Houthis of a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia and an overall increase in their operations against Saudi cities and shipping. Saudi forces have responded with airstrikes against Houthi positions, while the United Nations has called for sustained engagement to reduce tensions and protect navigation in the Red Sea.

"Developments around the Bab al-Mandab Strait underline the urgent need to prevent Yemen’s conflict from further threatening the security of the Red Sea and this vital international maritime route," said Khaled Khiari, UN assistant secretary-general for the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific. "What is needed now is sustained engagement that reduces tensions, prevents further escalation and safeguards freedom of navigation," he added.