Riyadh schools switch to remote learning amid Houthi threat

Schools in Riyadh have abruptly switched to remote learning for the remainder of the week, with parents receiving notices from multiple institutions. The reason for this decision has not been disclosed by Saudi authorities. At least three schools have sent messages to parents, all stating that lessons will take place remotely from Sunday to Thursday.

Neither the Ministry of Education nor the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen has offered an official explanation for the sudden move. Tensions are high in the region, as the coalition reported on Saturday evening that it had successfully shot down two drones launched by the Houthis towards Riyadh. Earlier, the coalition claimed to have downed two ballistic missiles towards Khamis Mushait and six towards the Red Sea port of Yanbu.

The Houthis, supported by Iran, have intensified their attacks on Saudi Arabia since July, when they imposed a naval blockade. On Saturday, the military leaders of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey held a meeting in Riyadh to address the threats facing the kingdom. They recently signed a joint defense pact, with each nation agreeing to treat an attack on one as an attack on all.

Riyadh is also preparing for a busy week, with heavy traffic anticipated. The city has previously opted for remote learning via its Madrasati online platform, most recently in December for one day in Riyadh and the Eastern Province.