Houthis Attack Riyadh Airport, Triggering Explosions in Saudi Capital

On Thursday morning, explosions were heard in Riyadh after the Houthis claimed to have launched a ballistic missile against King Khalid International Airport, marking a second attack on the same target. The incident intensifies the series of aggressions against Saudi airports in recent weeks.

What the Houthis Claim About the King Khalid Attack

Yahya Saree, military spokesman for the Houthis, reported that the group's forces hit the airport at noon with a ballistic missile. In a statement, the group also called on employees of Saudi oil facilities to evacuate areas considered targets.

Saudi Coalition's Response

The spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, General Turki al-Malki, stated that two missiles were intercepted before reaching Riyadh. The Saudi civil defense agency reported “material damage” to buildings due to shrapnel resulting from the interceptions.

Immediate Impacts on the Airport and Passengers

King Khalid International Airport requested that transit passengers contact their airlines to confirm flight status before heading to the terminal. This measure follows a drone attack on the same airport the previous week, which left one person dead.

Other Recent Attacks on Saudi Airports

In addition to Riyadh, Abha airport was targeted in an attack that resulted in the deaths of two civilians – a Moroccan and an Algerian – and left 28 injured. At King Khalid airport, a Sudanese citizen died and eight people were injured.

Context of Escalating Hostilities

The Houthis have claimed attacks on Saudi airports, critical infrastructure, and military sites as part of their strategy to exert economic pressure on the Kingdom. The coalition accused the group of terrorism and promised responses, while Saudi forces destroyed a launch platform in Sanaʽa, the Yemeni capital.

Repercussions for Global Trade

Attacks on Saudi facilities could affect shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, where traffic has been reduced due to the conflict between Iran and regional allies. Approximately 12% of global trade transits through this corridor.

With information from Euronews.com.