Saudi Arabia intercepts Houthi missiles and drones targeting Riyadh and oil facilities

Saudi Arabian air defenses have intercepted multiple ballistic missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen. The attacks targeted several locations, including the capital, Riyadh, the city of Taif, and the coastal area of Yanbu. Houthi forces claimed their strikes were aimed at sensitive targets in Riyadh and Aramco oil facilities in Yanbu, a critical alternative route for Saudi oil exports.

The escalation has caused significant volatility in energy markets, with oil prices jumping approximately three percent due to fears of supply disruptions in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb strait. This follows recent Houthi advances along Yemen's western coast, placing them in control of strategic maritime corridors.

Coalition spokesperson Turki al-Maliki confirmed the interception of drones and projectiles, though immediate reports on casualties or material damage were not specified. The internationally recognized Yemeni government has called on global leaders to intervene, warning that Houthi presence near vital shipping lanes poses a major international economic risk.