A missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels has struck Riyadh's financial district, damaging a building of Saudi Aramco, the kingdom's oil giant. According to eyewitnesses, the district, known as the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), was hit on Sunday, with several floors of the Aramco building showing signs of damage, including broken windows and visible damage to its facade.
The attack is a significant escalation in the conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, who have been battling the Saudi-backed Yemeni government. Riyadh's financial district is a symbol of the kingdom's economic and social reforms, featuring high-rise buildings, luxury shops, and green spaces. The area is also home to residential units and a busy metro station.
The Saudi-led coalition announced earlier that it had intercepted two ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis towards Riyadh, with coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki stating that the missiles were launched by the "Houthi terrorist militia." The coalition also destroyed two cruise missiles fired towards Riyadh and the south of the country.
The attack occurred hours after the Saudi education ministry announced the resumption of in-person classes in Riyadh, following several weeks of online learning due to previous waves of attacks. The Houthis have been targeting Riyadh, including its airport, with missile and drone attacks since October, prompting concerns over the safety of civilians and infrastructure.
The Houthis have accused Saudi forces of launching deadly attacks on civilians in Yemen, with two reported incidents on Friday and Saturday. The latest attack on Riyadh's financial district may indicate a further escalation of the conflict, which has been ongoing for several years.
The Saudi-led coalition has been supporting the Yemeni government in its battle against the Houthis, who are backed by Iran. The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian suffering and infrastructure damage in Yemen, with concerns over the humanitarian situation continuing to grow.
An investigation into the incident is likely to be conducted, with authorities seeking to determine the extent of the damage and potential casualties. The incident highlights the ongoing security concerns in the region and the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Key points
- The attack on Riyadh's financial district marks a significant escalation in the conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.
- The incident highlights concerns over the safety of civilians and infrastructure in the region.
- The conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis has resulted in significant humanitarian suffering and infrastructure damage in Yemen.
