Saudi-Led Coalition Says It Intercepts Iran-Backed Houthi Ballistic Missile Targeting Riyadh

RIYADH, Oct 20: The Saudi-led coalition said on Tuesday it had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile fired by Yemen’s Houthi group toward the Saudi capital, Riyadh, amid escalating regional hostilities.

Explosions were heard in Riyadh following a security alert issued by Saudi Arabia’s National Early Warning Platform, raising concerns over a potential threat to the capital.

Saudi Civil Defense announced on X that a warning had been issued in Riyadh to alert residents of possible danger. It urged the public to follow safety instructions.

The alert was followed by reports of explosions across the capital. However, there was no immediate official information on the cause of the reported blasts, or on possible casualties or damage.

The coalition’s announcement identified the projectile as a ballistic missile fired toward Riyadh and said it had been intercepted and destroyed.

The incident comes amid rising tensions involving Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, who have previously launched missile and drone attacks toward Saudi territory. The Saudi-led coalition has also conducted military operations against Houthi positions in Yemen.

Further details about the interception and the circumstances surrounding the security alert were not immediately available.