Saudi Arabia intercepted a significant wave of missiles and drones launched by Houthi forces on Monday, with explosions reported in Riyadh and security alerts issued across several southern cities. The attacks occurred as Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport reopened after a two-week closure prompted by the conflict.

The Saudi-led coalition announced it successfully intercepted 10 ballistic missiles aimed at the southern region of the kingdom, along with a cruise missile targeting Khamis Mushait. In addition, air defenses shot down a ballistic missile and two drones near Riyadh, where three explosions were heard by reporters early Monday. Residents in Riyadh and cities including Abha, Taif, Namas, and Jazan received emergency alerts warning of incoming aerial threats.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, debris from intercepted missiles caused injuries to a Saudi citizen and an Asian resident in Khamis Mushait and Ahad Rafidah. The missiles also damaged three residential buildings and seven vehicles. The Houthi movement claimed responsibility for attacks targeting three airports, energy facilities, a pipeline, and a military air base in Saudi Arabia.

Sheikh Abdulrahman Al Sudais, head of religious affairs at Islam’s two holiest sites—the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah—cautioned that the security and sanctity of these sites represented a “red line” that must not be crossed. Although reports indicated debris from intercepted missiles fell in the regions near the holy cities, the Houthis denied targeting these locations.

The United Arab Emirates condemned the Houthi attacks, characterizing them as violations of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and threats to regional security and stability. Despite the recent aggression, King Khalid International Airport resumed limited operations on Monday. Terminal 1 began handling domestic flights, while Terminal 2 reopened for international flights operated by Saudi national carriers. However, Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree asserted the airport remained unsafe and described it as a military target.

The escalation in cross-border attacks comes amid increasing concerns from the United States about Iran’s regional activities. Recent intelligence assessments reportedly indicate that Iranian plots against American interests have reached advanced stages, heightening tensions in the Gulf region.