Sanaa / Riyadh, October 6, 2026 – Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis claimed on Monday that they had carried out a series of “qualitative military operations” using ballistic and cruise missiles as well as drones against multiple targets in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, an Aramco refinery, and military sites in the kingdom’s south.
Houthi military spokesman Brigadier General Yahya Saree said the first operation targeted King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital. He claimed the strike was “precise and direct” and caused disruption to air traffic. The second operation, according to Saree, targeted an Aramco refinery in Rabigh on the Red Sea coast, where he alleged a fire broke out. A third set of strikes hit Abha International Airport, King Khalid Air Base near Khamis Mushait, and other military and vital sites in the Najran and Jazan regions.
Loud explosions were reported over Riyadh on Monday evening, according to multiple media accounts. Saudi authorities had not immediately issued a detailed public confirmation of the extent of any damage or casualties at the time of the initial reports. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the claimed attacks.
The Houthi claims came as the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government intensified its own military operations against Houthi targets, including strikes on the Red Sea coast and efforts related to key routes and ports such as Mocha. The coalition has previously reported intercepting Houthi missiles and drones directed at Saudi territory.
The developments form part of a broader escalation in the Yemen conflict and wider regional tensions. The Houthis have repeatedly targeted Saudi energy infrastructure and other sites in previous years, and the group has also issued warnings regarding the safety of Saudi airspace (with exceptions stated for the holy cities of Mecca and Medina).
Independent verification of the claimed damage remains limited at this stage. The situation continues to develop, with potential implications for air traffic, energy facilities and regional security.