Repeated explosions in Riyadh prompted embassy shelter orders, school safety measures and business evacuations amid escalating Houthi attacks.
RIYADH: Powerful explosions echoed across Saudi Arabia’s capital on Thursday, prompting diplomats to shelter inside embassies, international schools to implement emergency safety measures and businesses to evacuate employees amid escalating attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
The explosions came hours after the Iran-backed Houthis claimed another attack targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The latest strike claim had not been independently verified.
Embassies and Schools Take Precautions
According to AFP, diplomats stationed in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter were instructed to remain inside their embassy compounds following repeated blasts across the city.
International schools also introduced precautionary measures, with at least one institution moving children into a basement for safety.
Meanwhile, employees working in the King Abdullah Financial District reported that several companies were evacuating staff as security concerns intensified.
Houthi Attacks Target Saudi Airports
The latest developments follow deadly attacks on Saudi aviation facilities earlier this week.
Saudi aviation authorities reported that strikes targeting Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and Abha International Airport killed three people and injured 36 others.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attacks, while Saudi-led forces reported intercepting missiles and conducting retaliatory operations against Houthi military positions in Yemen.
Regional Tensions Continue to Escalate
The renewed violence comes amid intensified fighting between Houthi forces and Yemen’s internationally recognised, Saudi-backed government.
The conflict has displaced more than 200,000 people since July, according to humanitarian figures cited by AFP.
The United States Embassy in Riyadh has urged American citizens to exercise increased vigilance amid potential flight disruptions and security threats.
With airports, diplomatic missions and commercial districts facing heightened precautions, the latest escalation is raising concerns over civilian safety and regional stability.
