Riyadh probes air defence failures amid deadly Houthi strikes

Saudi Arabia is investigating how Houthi missiles and drones evaded its air defence systems during attacks targeting Riyadh, according to The Associated Press. The probe is examining why Saudi defences failed to provide early warning of incoming projectiles that reportedly travelled more than 1,000 kilometres. The attacks on King Khalid International Airport killed at least 13 people and wounded more than 300, raising questions over the kingdom’s ability to detect and intercept long-range threats. Officials familiar with the initial findings said the Houthis launched multiple drones before firing missiles. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted two Houthi ballistic missiles aimed at Riyadh on October 12. The Houthis claimed responsibility for targeting the airport and also reported a drone attack on Khamis Mushait air base, intensifying scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s air defence capabilities.