Houthi Forces Claim Dual Attacks on Saudi Arabian Targets
On the evening of October 12, Yemen's Houthi movement released a statement through its military spokesperson Yahya Sarea, announcing coordinated attacks on two significant sites within Saudi Arabia. The statement detailed the use of distinct weapon systems, highlighting the group's continued capacity for long-range strikes amid ongoing regional hostilities.
Ballistic Missile Targets Riyadh's International Airport
The spokesperson stated that Houthi forces launched a ballistic missile toward King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. Sarea asserted the missile "accurately hit its target," though no independent assessment of damage was provided. As a major international aviation hub, the security of this airport is closely watched.
Drone Attack on Strategic Air Base
In the same announcement, the group claimed a separate drone strike on the King Khalid Air Base near Khamis Mushait in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The spokesperson similarly reported a direct hit. This base holds strategic importance in Saudi Arabia's military posture and has been a repeated focal point in the conflict.
Renewed Aviation Safety Advisory Issued
Alongside the attack claims, the Houthi statement included direct safety warnings for the international community. Sarea explicitly addressed global airlines, aviation professionals, airport staff, and travelers.
Most Saudi Airports Deemed Unsafe
The advisory urged all parties to avoid using airports across Saudi Arabia for air travel, labeling them "unsafe." The statement notably excluded the airports and airspace of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, Islam's most sacred sites.
- Primary Audience: International airlines, aviation experts, airport personnel, and passengers
- Affected Areas: All Saudi airports except those in Mecca and Medina
- Nature of Warning: Travel risk advisory based on current security conditions
Escalating Regional Security Concerns
This latest claim marks another escalation in the prolonged conflict between the Houthi movement and the Saudi-led coalition. The group has repeatedly claimed cross-border attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure, airports, and military bases in recent years, contributing to a deteriorating security landscape.
Regional observers note that such announcements and actions not only threaten civilian infrastructure within Saudi Arabia but also pose potential risks to international shipping and aviation routes in the Red Sea area. As of now, Saudi authorities have not issued an official response to the claimed attacks, and verification of the incidents remains pending.