Saudi Arabia's coalition forces announced on Tuesday they had intercepted two ballistic and cruise missiles fired towards the capital, Riyadh, and a third missile targeting the kingdom's southern region. The coalition, led by Saudi Arabia and engaged in conflict with Yemen's Houthi rebels, attributed the attacks to the Iran-backed group.

These incidents represent the latest escalation in a conflict that has seen repeated Houthi strikes on Saudi infrastructure. The attacks underscore the ongoing instability in the region, with Yemen serving as a focal point for broader geopolitical tensions involving Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Major-General Turki al-Maliki, a coalition spokesperson, confirmed the destruction of the missiles over Riyadh and the southern part of the country via social media. Residents in Riyadh reported hearing multiple explosions and received alerts to seek shelter. The civil defence agency later confirmed the immediate threat had passed. No immediate comment was available from the Houthi leadership.

The missile strikes followed an earlier report of an attack on the vital East-West oil pipeline in the Medina region on Monday. Saudi officials stated the strike resulted in a "limited fire" that was quickly extinguished, with no impact on pipeline operations. This pipeline is crucial for Saudi oil exports, particularly given restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.

The pipeline has been a recurring target for Houthi attacks, especially amid global energy concerns exacerbated by the US-Israel war on Iran. The frequency of these strikes highlights the strategic importance of Saudi energy infrastructure and the Houthis' capacity to target it.

Just days prior, on Sunday, the Houthis claimed responsibility for an "attempted attack" on Riyadh's business district. Saudi officials confirmed that falling debris caused minor damage to the Aramco Tower, with images showing visible damage to several floors.

These events are occurring against the backdrop of renewed fighting in Yemen, where the Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces are attempting to regain territory. The coalition has provided air support for these offensives, while the Houthis have responded with missile and drone attacks deep into Saudi Arabia.

The repeated targeting of Saudi oil facilities and the capital city raises concerns about regional security and the stability of global energy markets. The ongoing conflict in Yemen continues to have far-reaching consequences beyond its borders, drawing in regional and international actors.