The Saudi-led coalition and Iran-backed Houthis exchanged strikes on Sunday, escalating a conflict that has disrupted life in Riyadh and Yemen. The Kingdom Centre skyscraper in Riyadh mandated remote work for office tenants, including Merril Lynch and the International Monetary Fund, following security alerts and drone interceptions. The coalition conducted air raids on Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen, while the Houthis claimed to have downed a Saudi helicopter, resulting in the first military fatalities since the war reignited in July.
Schools in Riyadh extended online learning, and King Khalid International Airport remained closed after a deadly attack last week. The Houthis declared a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia and captured territory around the Bab al-Mandab strait, a vital oil export route. Egypt's parliament postponed a vote on authorizing military support for Saudi Arabia, while Iran's defense minister threatened retaliation against the U.S. and its allies.
Regional developments were discussed in meetings between Russian and Saudi foreign ministers, as well as Saudi and UAE leaders. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot was set to arrive in Riyadh ahead of President Emmanuel Macron's Gulf tour to reaffirm France's support for the kingdom.