Houthi strikes on Riyadh airport mark unprecedented escalation in eight-month conflict

Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed three strikes on Riyadh's airport Thursday, marking unprecedented violence in eight months of regional war, with aircraft damaged and a school hit. Saudi civil defense reported missile fragments fell after interception, damaging a kindergarten and medical complex. Diplomats sheltered in the diplomatic quarter, and international schools moved children to basements. Multiple flights were delayed or cancelled. The escalation follows renewed hostilities in July, with over 400 deaths in Yemen since Monday's government offensive. The Houthis also threatened oil facilities, while Riyadh has sought international support without success.