Saudi Arabia issued emergency alerts to its citizens early Saturday following reports of explosions in the capital, Riyadh. The Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense initially warned of an aerial attack before later declaring an all-clear. However, Reuters reported that smoke and flames were visible near King Khalid International Airport, though the cause remained unconfirmed.
Saudi authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the incident. The Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have recently intensified attacks on Saudi territory and launched a ground offensive around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical oil chokepoint, seizing the port city of Mokha and nearby islands.
In a parallel diplomatic development, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held talks with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, urging the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and safe passage for ships. Dar emphasized the impact of regional instability on developing nations and global supply chains, according to a statement from Pakistan’s foreign ministry.
The two diplomats agreed to continue discussions on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week. The meeting comes as direct U.S.-Iran peace negotiations remain stalled.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration recently approved a potential $24.3 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, which includes 48 F-35 fighter jets, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, and additional parts. President Donald Trump expressed hope on Wednesday that the conflict is nearing its end.
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