Houthis Launch Major Missile-Drone Attack on Saudi Oil Infrastructure

The Houthi militant group launched what it described as a major coordinated assault on Saudi Arabian energy and aviation infrastructure, marking an escalation in cross-border strikes that have periodically disrupted regional oil markets. The attack involved multiple missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles targeting oil refineries and King Fahd International Airport in Riyadh, according to Houthi claims.

Saudi Arabia's air defence systems engaged the incoming threats, with coalition forces intercepting a cruise missile bound for Riyadh before it reached its intended target. The kingdom's Civil Defence authority issued threat alerts across border regions, including the southwestern province of Najran, as defensive operations were underway.

Saudi officials subsequently declared the immediate threat contained, though full details of the engagement remained unclear. The incident reflects continued tensions in the region, with the Iran-aligned Houthis periodically conducting strikes against Saudi infrastructure despite years of international pressure and military operations.

Such attacks have historically prompted concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supplies, given Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in international energy markets. The latest offensive underscores the persistent security challenges facing the kingdom and regional aviation and energy sectors.