Explosions in Saudi Capital Riyadh; Air Raid Alert Issued

Two loud explosions were heard in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, following the issuance of an air raid alert. The incident occurred early Saturday morning (September 19). Such an event in Riyadh has sparked renewed concern amidst the recent escalation of the conflict in Yemen.

Shortly before 3:00 AM, emergency alerts were sent to the mobile phones of Riyadh residents. The messages warned of a "hostile aerial threat" and instructed everyone to remain indoors.

Shortly after the alert was issued, AFP journalists heard the sound of two explosions. However, no immediate details were released regarding the specific cause of the blasts or where the impacts occurred. About half an hour later, Saudi Civil Defence announced that the immediate danger had passed and the alert was lifted.

In recent weeks, security alerts have been issued across various parts of Saudi Arabia due to drone and missile attacks by Yemen's Houthi forces. Warnings regarding potential threats were issued—and subsequently lifted—for Al-Kharj as well as Riyadh.