World

Saudis 'intercept missile near capital'

09:15 am on 5 November 2017

Saudi Arabia has intercepted a ballistic missile from Yemen, reports say, after a loud explosion was heard near Riyadh airport.

A loud explosion was heard near Riyadh airport. Photo: 123RF

Saudi air defence forces were quoted by broadcaster Al-Arabiya as saying they intercepted the missile north-east of the capital.

A TV channel linked to Houthi rebels in Yemen said the missile was launched at the airport.

Saudi forces have reported shooting down Houthi missiles before.

State news channel Al-Ekhbariya said the missile was "of limited size" and no damage was caused.

A long-range ballistic missile was fired at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the Houthi TV channel Al-Masirah reported.

Yemen has been devastated by a war between forces loyal to the internationally-recognised government of President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi and those allied to the Houthi rebel movement.

Saudi Arabia is leading a campaign to defeat the Houthis.

- BBC