Saudi coalition intercepts ballistic missile targeting Riyadh

On October 26, 2026, the Saudi-led military coalition operating in Yemen reported the successful interception and destruction of a ballistic missile launched by the Houthi rebel movement, Ansar Allah. The projectile was aimed at the Saudi capital, Riyadh, which has been subjected to repeated aerial attacks in recent weeks. Residents of the city reported hearing explosions and received official warnings regarding potential airborne threats.

The Houthi rebels, who are aligned with Iran, confirmed their involvement, explicitly stating that their target was the Riyadh international airport. These attacks are framed by the insurgents as retaliatory measures against the Saudi kingdom's ongoing military support for the internationally recognized government of Yemen. Despite the repeated attempts to strike critical infrastructure, the coalition successfully neutralized the threat before it could cause significant damage.

The situation remains tense as Riyadh continues to be a primary target for cross-border fire. The coalition maintains its commitment to the internationally recognized government, while the rebel forces continue their efforts to target the capital, leading to a persistent state of alert for the city's inhabitants.