Missiles over Riyadh, millions on the line: Canelo Alvarez's next fight faces a crisis unlike any other
Riyadh is facing security threats from Houthi missile attacks, which have forced the closure of the city's main airport. These disruptions are impacting major international events and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification plans.
Why it matters
The conflict threatens regional stability and the economic viability of Saudi Arabia's massive investment in tourism and sports.
On Monday night, residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia heard their cell phones ping as official text messages warned of an imminent aerial attack.
It was the third successive day Ansar Allah, the militant organization also known as the Houthis, launched missile attacks targeting the Saudi Arabian capital.
Described by the United States government as a foreign terrorist organization, the Houthis are an Iran-backed political and paramilitary movement from northern Yemen.
The organization said its intention was to strike King Khalid International — an airport that has remained closed since attacks on Saturday and Sunday killed at least 13 people, wounding more than 300.
The airport has been on fire. There has been significant interior damage. At least one commercial aircraft is ruined.
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