Saudi Arabia is reportedly running low on interceptor missiles needed to defend against further Houthi strikes, as attacks by Iran-backed militants in neighbouring Yemen threaten the kingdom’s security. The escalating conflict also threatens Saudi Arabia’s economic ambitions, including its plans to make travel and tourism key growth drivers.
The kingdom initially appeared relatively well positioned after the war with Iran began, with a pipeline allowing it to export oil while bypassing the blocked Strait of Hormuz. However, escalating Houthi attacks have exposed vulnerabilities in Saudi Arabia’s air defences and critical infrastructure.
The growing threat follows a strike on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport on October 10 that killed 13 people and injured hundreds. The attacks have turned parts of the Saudi capital, located more than 500 miles from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, into a potential battle zone. On Thursday, debris from an intercepted ballistic missile struck a kindergarten and a medical clinic complex.
Houthis have warned international airlines, businesses, and travellers against operating flights to Saudi airports, claiming they are unsafe, except for the airports and airspace of Mecca and Medina. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesperson, reiterated this warning in a statement.
The death toll from the October 10 airport attack rose to 13 after the Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that an Indian national injured in the incident had died. The embassy noted that it was in touch with the family and providing support for repatriating the mortal remains, while several other injured Indian nationals remained hospitalized.
Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation previously reported fatalities and hundreds of injuries from multiple strikes targeting King Khalid International Airport and Abha International Airport in early October. Following the major attack, operations were temporarily suspended to assess damage and conduct safety inspections.
The Houthis have also targeted Saudi oil exports, having announced a maritime blockade in July that puts Red Sea shipping at risk. An attack on the East-West pipeline in September further threatened the kingdom’s main alternative route for exporting oil amid disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
This escalation unfolds as Crown Prince Mohammed seeks to contain the confrontation with Iran. While Saudi intelligence indicated that Tehran was pressing the Houthis to join the war, some Saudi officials believed the militants would ultimately act in their own interests.