Tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels escalated on Saturday, with the group claiming attacks on Saudi oil facilities and airports, while Saudi authorities reported falling missile debris in the regions of Mecca and Medina.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the group targeted a Saudi Aramco facility in Yanbu, the Rabigh oil refinery and several airports, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, airports in Dammam and Najran, and other strategic locations.
Saudi authorities did not directly confirm the alleged attacks on the oil facilities and airports. However, the kingdom's civil defence agency said it had responded to falling debris following the interception of two ballistic missiles in the Mecca and Medina regions. Some debris fell in Wadi Mughamas, outside Mecca.
The Houthis denied targeting the two holy cities, with Saree describing Saudi claims that the group had directed attacks towards Mecca and Medina as false.
The latest escalation followed allegations by the Houthi-run Al-Masirah television channel that Saudi strikes in Yemen had killed 17 people. The reported casualties included four people killed in a house in Sanaa, eight in a residential building housing cement factory workers and five members of a family near Hodeida. Saudi Arabia has not claimed responsibility for the alleged strikes.
Meanwhile, Yemen's Saudi-backed government said the Houthis had fired three ballistic missiles at coast guard facilities in the southern port city of Aden.
The Houthis have also reiterated their warning against using Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport, describing it as a military target and threatening further operations. The airport announced that Terminal 1 would handle domestic flights and Terminal 2 international flights operated by Saudi national carriers from Sunday, following an earlier suspension of operations.
Air India issued a travel advisory on Saturday, offering eligible passengers with confirmed bookings issued on or before October 24 flexible rebooking or full refunds upon cancellation. A one-time complimentary rebooking to other operational destinations in Saudi Arabia was also available, subject to conditions and seat availability.
The developments have heightened security concerns across the Gulf, with the potential for further disruption to aviation and regional stability.