Houthi rebels launch missile attacks and propaganda campaign against Saudi Arabia

Yemeni Houthi rebels have escalated their conflict with Saudi Arabia through both military strikes and a targeted propaganda campaign. On Sunday, Saudi authorities reported intercepting and destroying two drones, one ballistic missile heading toward Riyadh, one cruise missile aimed at Khamis Mushait, and 10 additional ballistic missiles directed at southern regions.

In addition to kinetic warfare, Houthi leadership has intensified a psychological campaign. Houthi leaders, including Abdul-Malik al-Houthi and Mahdi al-Mashat, have utilized the Epstein files to allege corruption within the Saudi royal family. They have specifically circulated claims regarding the movement of the Kaaba cover cloth to Jeffrey Epstein’s private island to question the Saudi leadership’s role as protectors of Islam. While no evidence has surfaced to substantiate these specific allegations, Houthi media outlets—including television, radio, and social media—are actively promoting them to undermine the Saudi monarchy.

The military escalation follows a deadly attack earlier this month at King Khalid International Airport, which resulted in 13 deaths and over 300 injuries. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree has maintained that the airport remains a military target, warning travelers and airlines to avoid the facility.