Saudi air defences repel Houthi attack on Riyadh as airport prepares reopening

Saudi Arabia's air defences successfully intercepted a ballistic missile and multiple unmanned aerial vehicles targeting Riyadh on Tuesday, according to statements from the kingdom's military authorities. Explosions were reported across the capital as defence systems engaged the incoming threats.

The attack was claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have maintained a sustained campaign against Saudi infrastructure and civilian areas. The Iran-backed militant group issued a fresh warning that King Khalid International Airport remains within their targeting scope and should be considered a military objective.

The airport, one of the Middle East's busiest aviation hubs, has faced intermittent closures due to security concerns stemming from Houthi drone and missile strikes. Officials announced plans to resume full operations despite the ongoing security situation, underscoring Riyadh's determination to maintain normal commercial activity amid regional tensions.

The latest incident represents an escalation in cross-border hostilities that have persisted since the Houthis joined broader regional conflicts. Saudi Arabia has maintained extensive air defence capabilities to counter such threats, though the frequency of attacks has prompted concerns among international observers and commercial aviation operators.