RIYADH (Realist English). Saudi air defense forces reported intercepting several ballistic missiles launched toward Riyadh. This occurred after a deadly Houthi attack on the international airport. The interception became the latest sign of a sharp escalation of the conflict.
Details of the interception
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA), citing a statement from the Saudi-led coalition, reported: air defense forces overnight from October 10 to 11 intercepted several “hostile projectiles.” The statement did not specify the number of intercepted missiles or the type of defense system used.
The Saudi Ministry of Defense later published video of the interception. The footage shows missiles being destroyed in the night sky. Coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki stated: the Houthis “continue to target civilians and civilian infrastructure.” He warned: “all necessary measures to protect the civilian population” will be taken.
The preceding deadly attack
The interception occurred shortly after an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. That attack killed at least 12 people and wounded 309. Among the dead is a US citizen.
This is the third attack on Riyadh airport in a week. Previous strikes on October 5 and 7 killed 6 people and wounded at least 36. The Houthis openly claimed responsibility for the attack. Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree stated: ballistic missiles “successfully hit their targets.”
Escalation in the region
In recent months, the Houthis have occupied several strategic points on the Red Sea coast. They have begun systematic missile strikes on targets deep inside Saudi territory.
Saudi Arabia is facing unprecedented security pressure. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated: Turkey and Pakistan are considering providing Saudi Arabia with air defense, electronic warfare means, and technical support. But participation in offensive operations is excluded.
Meanwhile, the US position has undergone changes. President Trump after the attack stated: the US “possibly” would join a military operation against the Houthis. This contrasts with the situation a month ago. At that time, the Crown Prince twice asked the American side to carry out direct strikes on the Houthis. Both times he was refused.
Strategic significance of the Red Sea route
The attacks are occurring against the backdrop of a sharp rise in the strategic importance of the Red Sea route. After the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz due to the US-Iranian war, the Red Sea and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait became a key alternative channel for energy exports from the Persian Gulf. Houthi strikes on Saudi airports directly threaten the security of this route.
