Yemen's Houthi rebels said they launched missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia on Saturday morning, striking the Saudi capital Riyadh for the first time and triggering a fire near the city's main airport. The attack marks a significant escalation in the conflict between the Iran-backed movement and the Saudi-led coalition.
The fire broke out near Riyadh's main airport following the Houthi announcement. There was no immediate word on casualties or the extent of the damage. Saudi authorities had not issued a public statement by the time of reporting.
The strike represents the first time the Houthis have targeted Riyadh since the conflict began. Previous Houthi attacks had focused on southern Saudi cities and border areas. The expansion to the capital signals a new phase in the rebel group's military capabilities.
On the ground in Yemen, Houthi fighters are pushing east in their battle against Saudi-backed government forces. The ground offensive, combined with the aerial attacks on Saudi territory, indicates a coordinated intensification of the Houthi campaign.
The fighting between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia has been escalating in recent weeks. The Houthis, who control large parts of northern Yemen including the capital Sanaa, have repeatedly launched cross-border attacks. Saudi Arabia has led a military coalition supporting Yemen's internationally recognised government since 2015.
The conflict has caused a severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, with millions displaced and in need of aid. The new strikes on Riyadh could further destabilise the region and complicate ongoing peace efforts.
Regional and international observers are watching closely for any Saudi response. The attack on the Saudi capital raises the risk of a wider confrontation, particularly given the Houthis' stated capability to reach deep into Saudi territory.
No group has claimed responsibility for the fire near the airport beyond the Houthi statement. The situation remains fluid, and further details are expected as authorities assess the impact.
