Saudi Arabia issued air raid alerts in Riyadh after explosions were reported in the capital, marking the first such warning there since the latest escalation with Yemen’s Houthis.
Saudi Civil Defence issued warnings across several regions late Friday and early Saturday before later giving residents an all-clear. At least one explosion was heard in Riyadh, although no casualties or damage in the capital were immediately reported.
Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid gathering in crowds as the alerts were issued. Warnings also covered areas including Jeddah, Taif, Khamis Mushait and Al Ula.
These alerts came amid a sharp escalation between Saudi Arabia and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, which has expanded its attacks on Saudi territory in recent weeks. The Houthis have launched missiles and drones at Saudi targets, while Saudi forces have carried out strikes in Yemen. The United Nations has expressed concern over the cross-border attacks and their impact on civilians and energy infrastructure.
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The Houthis have also advanced along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, including the capture of the strategic port city of Mokha. They have also captured nearby islands around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The developments have raised concerns over shipping through one of the world’s important maritime routes.
Saudi oil infrastructure has also come under attack. Recent Houthi strikes have caused fires at oil facilities and other infrastructure, while Saudi authorities have reported injuries from attacks in several cities.
