Middle East Tensions Rise as Saudi Arabia Issues Alert

Saudi Arabia issued its first alert in the capital since an escalation in fighting with Iran-backed rebels in neighboring Yemen, warning of a 'hostile aerial threat.' The alerts came overnight and included a report of an explosion heard in Riyadh. While no casualties or damage were reported, the Houthis claimed to have targeted 'sensitive sites' in Riyadh, including facilities at Saudi oil giant Aramco.

The Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree said they launched cruise and ballistic missiles as well as drones against the kingdom. However, neither Saudi authorities nor Aramco responded to a request for comment.

Meanwhile, Iran's Supreme National Security Council head, Mohsen Rezaei, stated that Tehran has conveyed its conditions for ending the war to Washington via Qatar. The conditions include halting hostilities on all fronts, releasing seized assets, and lifting the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports.