Houthi rebels claim they targeted Riyadh’s international airport with a ballistic missile as explosions and flight disruptions raise concerns about escalating fighting between Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for a missile attack on the Saudi capital city of Riyadh. The strike was reported to have caused explosions across the city including near King Khalid International Airport.
Saudi authorities disputed the claim of a successful strike and said their air defenses intercepted two ballistic missiles over Riyadh according to Al Jazeera. The attack comes amid ongoing tensions in the region involving Saudi Arabia and Houthi forces based in Yemen.
Riyadh has been a frequent target of attacks from the Houthis in recent years with previous strikes causing damage and casualties. The Saudi government has responded by strengthening its air defenses and increasing military activity in the region.
Local residents reported hearing loud booms during the incident. The Houthi movement has often used missile attacks as a tactic to pressure Saudi Arabia and draw international attention.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the missile struck King Khalid International Airport on October 8. Saudi authorities reported that falling missile debris damaged a kindergarten and a medical clinic. Airport operations were disrupted as passengers faced flight cancellations and delays.
International observers are monitoring the developments closely due to the escalating nature of the conflict in Yemen. The region has seen a number of recent military actions involving various parties including regional powers and non-state actors.
Houthi fighters have previously claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi cities often targeting infrastructure and urban centers. The current attack adds to a pattern of Houthi missile activity that has continued despite diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities.
Saudi Arabia’s military has been on high alert in response to such threats and has taken measures to protect key installations. The international community is watching the situation closely with calls for de-escalation growing from various quarters.
The Houthi group identified the weapon used in the latest attack as a ballistic missile. Analysts suggest that such strikes are part of a broader strategy to maintain pressure on Saudi Arabia.
The incident raises questions about the stability of the region and the effectiveness of current peace efforts. As the fighting continues further updates are expected from both Saudi officials and Houthi representatives.
The strike highlights ongoing challenges in resolving the conflict in Yemen and its broader regional implications.
IMAGE: Airstrikes on houthis by america and Britain. source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/houthi-red-sea-attacks-yemen-strikes-news-b2477284.html. Photo: Personisinsterest / Wikimedia, taken 2024-01-11, CC BY 4.0
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