Saudi Arabia prepared for various scenarios amid Houthi attacks

Saudi Information Minister Salman Al-Dosari said Monday that the kingdom was prepared for various scenarios, regardless of their likelihood, stressing that life was continuing normally despite repeated Houthi attacks.

Speaking at a government press conference in Riyadh, according to the Saudi Press Agency, Al-Dosari said: “Life in the kingdom, praise be to God, continues normally.”

“Increasing readiness does not mean anxiety; rather, it reflects the state’s preparedness for various scenarios, whatever the likelihood of their occurrence,” he added.

Riyadh has faced repeated Houthi attacks in recent days, with strikes on King Khalid International Airport over two days forcing the temporary suspension of operations.

Despite the attacks, the World Petroleum Congress opened Sunday in Riyadh with broad international participation. Saudi Arabia is hosting the event for the first time, with proceedings scheduled to conclude Thursday.

Al-Dosari also highlighted the changes underway in the capital.

“Riyadh today is one of the cities whose transformation you can most clearly see as you travel along its roads: in transport activity, urban expansion and the growth of projects, through to its global presence as a capital for business, investment and decision-making,” he said.

Since Oct. 5, five Saudi airports have been targeted in 10 attacks carried out by the Houthi group, killing 20 people and injuring hundreds, according to an Anadolu tally. The attacks have also caused material damage and disrupted air traffic.

The strikes come amid continued military escalation between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis since July, including attacks on civilian aviation facilities and energy installations in the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia has led a military coalition supporting Yemen’s government against the Houthis since March 2015. The group has controlled the capital Sanaa and several provinces since September 2014.