Updates on tensions in the Middle East as of Friday (09 October)

As per latest reports, the updates on tensions in the Middle East as of Friday (09 October) are as follows:

• Yemen: Yemeni government forces as of Thursday (08 October) reported conducting 2,103 targeted operations against Houthi positions since the launch of the ‘Dawn of Yemen’ counteroffensive, stating that 1,860 Houthi fighters had been killed. The Yemini government forces also stated they had captured strategic mountain positions in western Taiz overlooking the coast. However, the claims have not been independently verified.
• Saudi Arabia: Saudi-led coalition forces on Thursday (08 October) reported intercepting two Houthi ballistic missiles directed towards Riyadh and another missile targeting Khamis Mushait. Saudi authorities subsequently reported that falling debris from an intercepted missile damaged a kindergarten and a medical-clinic complex in Riyadh, with no casualties reported in connection with the debris incident.
• Saudi Arabia: The Houthis on Thursday (08 October) claimed responsibility for a ballistic-missile attack targeting King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh following reports of explosions across the capital. The incident prompted renewed concerns regarding aviation security and potential disruptions to commercial flight operations.
• Yemen: The Saudi-led coalition on Thursday (08 October) reported intensifying military operations against Houthi positions, claiming to have destroyed 82 military targets across Saada, Hodeidah, Al-Jawf and Marib. The reported targets included ballistic-missile installations, command-and-control centres, communications systems and weapons storage facilities.
• Saudi Arabia: International and Indian airlines on Thursday (08 October) reportedly suspended or modified services to Riyadh amid the escalating security situation. More than 275 flight cancellations were reported on Thursday (08 October), while Lufthansa suspended its Riyadh services until 16 October. However, further schedule changes and cancellations may occur if missile attacks or airspace restrictions continue.
• Strait of Hormuz: As of 2050 hours UTC on Thursday (08 October), several powerful explosions were reported in the southern passage of the Strait of Hormuz. Reports indicate that unnamed military sources reported that oil tankers travelling along routes deemed ‘unauthorise’ by Tehran may have struck naval mines deployed in the area. The reports did not confirm the identities or number of vessels involved, casualties, or the extent of any damage.

Categories: External Threats - Cross-border Attacks / Clashes