Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh received air raid alerts on Friday night and Saturday morning, marking the first such warnings since the Iran-backed Houthis escalated their campaign in July. Explosions were reported in the city, though authorities subsequently issued an all-clear and confirmed the danger had passed. This incident represents a significant escalation in the Kingdom's ongoing conflict with the militant group, which has declared a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia.

The Houthis have recently seized control of strategic Red Sea ports, including Mokha and Perim Island, and launched drone and missile attacks against Saudi oil facilities that have temporarily halted operations. The attacks have directly affected global energy markets, with petrol and diesel prices rising sharply in recent weeks. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has requested direct US military intervention from President Trump, who has declined but offered intelligence and targeting assistance instead. The broader conflict stems from Yemen's civil war, which began in 2014 and has caused over 150,000 deaths, with more than 22 million people requiring humanitarian aid.