Residents of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, reported hearing strong explosions on Thursday, amid an escalation of attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels on the kingdom. According to eyewitnesses, the blasts were loud and could be felt throughout the city. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have claimed responsibility for a new attack, this time targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in the region.
Diplomatic sources confirmed that diplomats received instructions to take shelter in their embassies within the diplomatic district of Riyadh. The move was a precautionary measure following the explosions. Some schools in the city also took precautions, relocating students to safe areas. In the financial district, known as King Abdullah Financial District, some companies evacuated their employees as a precautionary measure.
The Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the attack on King Khalid International Airport, stating that they had launched a ballistic missile at the facility. This latest attack comes on the heels of a series of assaults on Saudi airports, including Abha and King Khalid airports, which resulted in the deaths of three people and injured 36 others. The Saudi authorities have not commented on the latest incident.
The escalation of attacks by the Houthis coincides with ongoing clashes between the rebels and government forces in Yemen. The conflict has led to the displacement of over 200,000 people, according to the United Nations. The situation has been further complicated by the Houthi rebels' control of the western coast of Yemen, including the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait.
The Saudi-led coalition has been involved in the conflict, carrying out airstrikes against Houthi positions. In recent days, the coalition has intensified its air campaign, supporting government forces in their efforts to retake territory from the rebels. The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian suffering, with many civilians caught in the crossfire.
The international community has expressed concern about the escalation of violence in Yemen. The United Nations has called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, highlighting the humanitarian consequences of continued fighting. The situation remains volatile, with both sides suffering losses and the humanitarian situation continuing to deteriorate.
The latest attack on Riyadh has raised concerns about the security situation in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom has been the target of several high-profile attacks in recent months, including drone strikes on its oil facilities. The Saudi authorities have vowed to take all necessary measures to protect the country's security and interests.
Key points
- Houthi rebels claim responsibility for new attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh
- Conflict in Yemen has led to displacement of over 200,000 people, according to UN
- Saudi-led coalition intensifies air campaign in support of government forces against Houthi rebels
