Saudi-led Coalition Intercepts Two Houthi Missiles Targeting Khamis Mushait
Saudi-led coalition destroys two ballistic missiles launched by Houthi militia targeting Khamis Mushait airbase amidst escalating regional tensions.
The Saudi-led coalition has successfully intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched by the Houthi militia aimed at the Khamis Mushait airbase in Saudi Arabia. This development comes as the kingdom faces a surge in aggressive strikes against critical infrastructure, including major airports.
Missiles Aimed at Khamis Mushait Airbase
The coalition spokesperson, Turki Al-Maliki, confirmed the interception via a statement on X. He noted that the two ballistic missiles launched by the Houthi militia were neutralized before they could reach their intended target in the Khamis Mushait region. This incident follows a series of deadly strikes on various airports across the country in recent days.
In response to the immediate threat, the Saudi Civil Defence agency issued an urgent alert to residents in the Khamis Mushait Governorate, advising them to remain vigilant. While the agency later announced that the immediate danger had passed, they urged citizens to continue following safety protocols and to avoid large gatherings or filming near sensitive areas during potential emergencies.
Houthi Claims of Precision Strikes
The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, claimed responsibility for the attacks, asserting that their forces had successfully targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh with a ballistic missile. Saree described the strike on the capital as "precise."
In addition to the missile strike on Riyadh, the Houthi spokesperson claimed a drone operation was carried out against the Khamis Mushait Air Base. Following these attacks, Saree issued a warning to international airlines and travelers, stating that flying to Saudi airports is unsafe, with the exception of the airspace surrounding the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
International Condemnation and Regional Security Concerns
The escalating violence has drawn sharp condemnation from international leaders. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed strong solidarity with Saudi Arabia, condemning the strikes on King Khalid International Airport. Speaking after a cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdogan offered condolences to those killed—including Umrah pilgrims—and wished a speedy recovery to the hundreds of people wounded in the recent strikes.
"Turkiye stands with Saudi Arabia and our Saudi brothers and sisters in the face of these attacks that violate law and humanity," Erdogan stated, emphasizing the need for peace and stability across the region.
Calls for Unified Gulf Defense
The attacks have also prompted calls for a stronger, unified defense mechanism among Gulf nations. UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash highlighted that the recent aggression proves that the security of the Gulf states is "indivisible."
Gargash argued that targeting Saudi Arabia directly undermines the security of the UAE and all other Gulf nations. He emphasized a pressing need to revive joint Gulf action, particularly in the realms of security and defense, to create a more robust collective security framework against such ongoing threats.