Houthi Rebels Target Riyadh with Ballistic Missile

Saudi Arabia's government confirmed that Yemen's Houthi rebels attempted to attack its capital city, Riyadh, with a ballistic missile on September 19. The Saudi-led coalition stated that the missile was intercepted, but some residents reported hearing an explosion and seeing a plume of smoke near the airport.

The Houthis claimed to have targeted 'sensitive sites' in Riyadh and facilities belonging to oil giant Aramco in Yanbu, causing 'massive fires.' However, Saudi Arabia denied these claims, stating that no damage or casualties occurred. The coalition also reported thwarting Houthi attempts to attack civilian infrastructure in the Red Sea port city of Yanbu and other locations.

The escalating conflict has raised concerns about global shipping corridors and market pressures. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, Houthi military spokesperson, stated that Saudi Arabia attempted to target the rebel-held city of Sanaa in neighboring Yemen but did not provide details.