Saudi Arabia issues ‘hostile aerial threat’ alert, explosions heard in Riyadh

Explosions were heard in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after an air raid alert was issued by Saudi Arabian authorities. A message received by residents of the Saudi capital read that "the area is under a hostile aerial threat." This was the first time the capital had been directly affected since the conflict in neighbouring Yemen intensified in July, according to Malay Mail.

The threat in Riyadh and Al-Kharj has since passed, according to the Saudi Civil Defense. Earlier, sirens had been activated, and authorities had urged the public to follow official safety instructions, including staying indoors and away from hazardous areas. Residents were advised to remain calm and adhere to guidance issued by official sources.

The recent attacks on Saudi Arabia come as the country faces escalating Houthi strikes from Yemen. Pakistan has expressed its support for Saudi Arabia, with its military spokesperson stating that the country will go "to any extent" to defend Saudi Arabia against attack.

Brief written by urgent.news from Malay Mail, Ajel English, The Island Sri Lanka, Bernama, Daily Times — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.