Saudi Arabia braces for further Houthi attacks as Riyadh projects normalcy

Saudi Arabia is on high alert following a series of Houthi strikes that have disrupted aviation, resulted in civilian casualties, and sparked concerns of potential US intervention. Despite the security threats, life in the kingdom appears to be proceeding normally, according to the Saudi Information Minister Salman Al-Dosari. He assured the public that the kingdom is ready for various eventualities, not just the possibility of an attack.

Riyadh has faced repeated Houthi attacks in recent days, with strikes on King Khalid International Airport over two consecutive days causing temporary suspensions to operations. Despite this, the World Petroleum Congress opened in the Saudi capital on Sunday, drawing international participants and expected to conclude on Thursday.

Saudi Arabia has been targeted five times by five Houthi attacks since October 5, resulting in 20 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The attacks have caused property damage and disrupted air traffic. This escalation comes amid rising military tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis since July, including strikes on civil aviation facilities and energy infrastructure.

The Houthis have threatened retaliation against the United States if Washington intervenes in the Yemen conflict. They urged workers at Saudi oil facilities and airports to avoid the sites, which they now consider legitimate targets. Saudi Arabia has led a military coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government against the Houthis since March 2015.