Houthis say targeted 'sensitive sites' in Riyadh, Aramco facilities in Yanbu

On Saturday, the Yemeni Houthi group claimed responsibility for launching strikes targeting "sensitive sites" in Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh, as well as oil facilities in the port city of Yanbu. This marks the first time in recent history that the Houthis have threatened the Saudi capital, further exacerbating an already volatile global economy strained by nearly seven months of conflict between the United States and Iran.

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree stated, via Telegram, that two successful military operations were conducted using a large number of ballistic and cruise missiles and drones. The first operation targeted sensitive sites in Riyadh, while the second struck Aramco facilities in Yanbu. Smoke plumes from a fuel depot near Riyadh's international airport were visible following explosions, prompting the Saudi civil defense to issue alerts to residents for potential danger in Riyadh and the nearby city of Al-Kharj.

Two explosions were heard by AFP journalists in the Olaya area, and a resident described the attack as "terrifying," highlighting the anxiety felt by the city's residents.