Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia more effective than February Iranian attacks, gaps in air defense found
A Western military official in Riyadh told Middle East Eye that Saudi air defense intercepts at least 90% of Houthi rockets and drones, but the Houthis are finding gaps, making their recent strikes more successful than Iranian attacks in February. The claim is based on a single anonymous source, so the extent of the gap and the comparison to Iranian attacks remain unverified. This matters because it indicates a potential degradation in Saudi air defense effectiveness amid ongoing regional conflict.
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Houthi Attacks Escalate on Saudi Energy & Civilian Infrastructure
Houthi forces have significantly escalated attacks on Saudi Arabia, directly targeting critical energy infrastructure, including Saudi Aramco's headquarters in Dhahran, and major civilian hubs like Riyadh airport. These strikes have resulted in civilian casualties, disrupted international events, and exposed vulnerabilities in Saudi air defenses, despite US-supplied systems. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for these attacks and vowed further strikes, indicating a sustained campaign.