Houthi Rebels Strike Saudi Airports and Oil Refineries; Warn Airlines
Houthi rebels claim attacks on Saudi airports and refineries, while the US updates travel advisories for the region.
In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree has announced that Yemen's rebels have launched a series of strikes targeting critical infrastructure across Saudi Arabia. The attacks reportedly hit several key installations, including major airports, oil refineries, and a military airbase, sparking high alerts across the kingdom.
Key Targets in the Houthi Offensive
According to statements released by Yahya Saree, the Houthi forces targeted multiple strategic locations. The military spokesperson specifically claimed that the following sites were hit:
- Aviation Hubs: King Khalid Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, and Najran Airport.
- Energy Infrastructure: The Aramco Company in Yanbu, the Rabigh Refinery, and the East-West oil pipeline.
- Military Facilities: The Khamis Mushait Airbase.
Following these claims, the Houthi leadership renewed a stern warning to airlines, travelers, and airport workers, urging them to avoid using the King Khalid Airport in Riyadh, which the group now designates as a "military target."
Saudi Response and Civil Defense Alerts
As the threats unfolded, Saudi authorities implemented immediate changes to airport operations. Starting Sunday, October 25, King Khalid International Airport has designated Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights operated by Saudi national carriers.
The tension was further heightened when the General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense issued emergency alerts regarding a "hostile aerial threat" in the city of Mecca. Residents were urged to follow safety instructions, avoid gatherings, and refrain from filming the events. Similar alerts were issued for the governorates of Jeddah, Yanbu, and Taif. While the Saudi Civil Defense later confirmed that the danger had passed in these areas, citizens were advised to remain vigilant and contact 911 in case of emergencies.
Interception of Missiles
Major General Turki Al-Malki, the spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition, provided a counter-account of the events. He stated that Saudi air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched by the Houthi militia that were headed toward the cities of Taif and Yanbu.
US Updates Travel Advisory for UAE
The volatility in the region has prompted the United States to update its travel advisory for the United Arab Emirates. While the formal risk level remains at "Reconsider Travel" (Level 3), the US Embassy and Consulate in the UAE have explicitly warned of an increased threat of armed attacks by "Iranian-supported Houthi forces."
The updated advisory highlights the potential for rapid regional escalation. Consequently, strict security measures have been imposed on US government personnel. Employees working in the UAE now require special authorization to visit military bases and critical energy infrastructure sites due to heightened security risks and restrictions imposed by the UAE government.
"Reconsider Travel to the United Arab Emirates due to terrorism and armed conflict," the official US advisory states, noting that the summary was updated to reflect the increased threat from the Houthis.