Why are Houthi missiles breaking through Saudi Arabia’s air defences?
Houthi forces have launched a series of missile and drone attacks against Saudi Arabia, including a deadly strike on King Khalid International Airport. The attacks highlight the challenges Saudi Arabia faces in defending against increasingly sophisticated aerial threats.
Why it matters
The escalation of the conflict in Yemen and the breach of Saudi air defenses have significant implications for regional security and global travel.
Repeated Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid Airport reveal the limitations of even the most high-tech air defences.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info A security officer stands guard in front of a missile image in Sanaa, April 17, 2026 [Mohammed Huwais / AFP] (AFP) By Rached El-Moctar Published On 11 Oct 2026 11 Oct 2026 Yemen’s Houthis, the armed group also known as Ansar Allah (Arabic for Supporters of God), are hitting deep inside Saudi Arabia with waves of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones.
Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport has been targeted multiple times by the Houthis since their new military campaign against the kingdom began in September.
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