Riyadh airport partially reopens: Saudi Arabia intercepts Houthi ballistic missile, drones

Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted a ballistic missile launched toward Riyadh by the Houthis as the group continued to target King Khalid International Airport, which was partially open for operations. The claim followed moments when the Houthis said they had launched multiple missiles in three attacks against the kingdom, including an initial strike on the Riyadh airport.

The airport’s Terminal 1 was designated to handle domestic flights and Terminal 2 to handle international flights operated by national carriers, with the plan effect beginning Sunday. The Houthis warned airlines, employees and travelers against using the Riyadh airport, describing it as unsafe due to it being a military target.

In separate Houthi statements, the group claimed ongoing warnings and cautions regarding Saudi airspace, advising against travel through Khalid Airport and noting the Mecca and Medina airspaces as exceptions in a broader warning.

The Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting and destroying a total of 12 missiles and two drones aimed at the kingdom, including a ballistic missile and two drones targeting the Riyadh region. The figures came via coalition statements and unverified posts.

The Houthis’ military spokesperson claimed large-scale airstrikes in Yemen in the preceding 24 hours, listing several provinces as affected using various aircraft and bases, though these claims were not independently verified. The situation involves ongoing tensions and conflicting statements from both sides.