Saudi Capital Hit by Air Raid Alerts as Yemen Conflict Escalates

The conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen has escalated further. Air raid alerts were issued for Riyadh, the Saudi capital, on Friday night and Saturday morning, which was the first time such alerts have been issued in the city since the Houthis increased their attacks in July.

Journalists from Reuters and AFP reported hearing explosions in the capital, but authorities have since said the danger has passed. Residents were urged to avoid gathering in crowds. The Saudi Civil Defence sent alerts for several other regions as well.

The Houthis recently seized control of the strategic port city of Mokha and Perim Island, a gateway to a key shipping route used by the Gulf state to export oil to Asia and Europe. This has put significant pressure on global energy markets, leading to price increases for petrol and diesel in many countries.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has personally asked US President Donald Trump to take military action against the Houthis, but Trump has declined direct involvement. Instead, he has offered intelligence and targeting support.