Saudi Arabia says it intercepted a ballistic missile launched by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels toward Riyadh on Saturday, marking the first attempt to target the Saudi capital since a recent escalation in regional fighting. Residents reported hearing an explosion, while smoke was seen near King Khalid International Airport. Saudi authorities reported no casualties or damage.
The Saudi-led coalition also said Houthi attacks aimed at civilian infrastructure in Yanbu, Taif, Baysh and Farasan were prevented. The Houthis claimed they struck sensitive locations in Riyadh and facilities belonging to state oil company Aramco in Yanbu, causing major fires. Those claims were not independently verified, and Aramco did not comment.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the group used ballistic and cruise missiles as well as drones. He also alleged that Saudi Arabia had attempted to strike Sanaa, the Houthi-held Yemeni capital, but offered no supporting details.
The exchange follows several days of rising tension. Saudi officials said debris from an intercepted Houthi drone killed a Yemeni resident in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. A day earlier, Riyadh accused the Houthis of attempting a drone attack on Mecca, an allegation the group denied.
The conflict is also intensifying inside Yemen, where Houthi forces have captured Mokha and islands near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a major global shipping route. The territorial gains may strengthen the group’s ability to monitor passing vessels. The Houthis say they are targeting only Saudi ships.
The renewed hostilities have raised concerns about regional security, energy infrastructure and maritime trade. The United States has indicated it is not currently seeking conflict with the Houthis. Regional officials said Saudi Arabia has requested air-defence assistance from several countries amid concerns over its interceptor supplies. The latest fighting also threatens to revive Yemen’s prolonged civil war after four years of relative calm in Yemen.