Saudi Arabia issued emergency alerts late Friday and early Saturday, warning of a hostile aerial threat across the kingdom, including its capital, Riyadh. At least one explosion was reported in the city, followed by visible smoke and flames near King Khalid International Airport.
Regional diplomatic efforts stalled as Pakistan’s foreign minister pressed Iran on energy supplies, while the U.N. Security Council condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and commercial vessels.
Immediate Developments
Saudi authorities did not immediately confirm the cause of the explosions or the smoke plume near the airport. The Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense issued early warnings, and Reuters reported two audible booms before later rescinding the alert. A large plume of smoke was observed near the airport, though no casualties or damage were reported.
The U.N. Security Council condemned the Houthi missile attacks against Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping lanes, stating the escalation risked expanding the conflict and threatening maritime security. The council called for enforcement of the U.N. arms embargo against the Houthis, urging all nations to prevent arms transfers to the group.
Diplomatic and Military Context
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Saturday, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted energy supplies amid the Middle East conflict. The discussion followed weeks of Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, including a ground offensive near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical oil choke point.
The U.S. approved a $24.3 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia last week, including 48 F-35 warplanes and related equipment, seen as a strategic boost for the kingdom. Meanwhile, Iran executed a man accused of spying for Israel’s Mossad, as reported by Iran’s state TV.
Houthi Escalation and Regional Impact
The Iran-backed Houthis intensified attacks on Saudi Arabia, seizing territory near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and targeting commercial vessels. The U.N. warned that continued escalation would worsen Yemen’s humanitarian crisis. Saudi forces previously reported intercepting Houthi missiles and drones, though no immediate claims of responsibility were made for the latest incidents.
Authorities did not specify whether the explosions were linked to the Houthi attacks or another cause. The Saudi Civil Defense maintained a state of heightened alert until further notice.