Last Updated:
The reported security measures come as Yemen’s Houthi rebels step up attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting key infrastructure, including airports and energy facilities.
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (AFP file photo)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is moving between heavily guarded palaces equipped with bunkers as Houthi missile attacks intensify, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
The 41-year-old crown prince, widely known as MBS, has not appeared in public since Tuesday, when he donated blood as part of a national donation drive. Officials familiar with his movements told the WSJ that he is being shuttled between fortified palaces under the protection of a handpicked security team.
The reported security measures come as Yemen’s Houthi rebels step up attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting key infrastructure, including airports and energy facilities.
The escalating conflict has raised concerns over the kingdom’s ability to protect its capital and strategic assets.
MBS Under Tight Security As Attacks Intensify
According to the WSJSaudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, has faced repeated missile threats despite being hundreds of miles from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen.
The report said debris from an intercepted ballistic missile struck a kindergarten and a medical clinic complex last Thursday.
Saudi Arabia has been moving its air defence systems around the country to protect key sites, including palaces and energy infrastructure, people familiar with the kingdom’s deliberations told the newspaper.
Saudi officials have also said the kingdom is running low on missile interceptors needed to counter further attacks.
Oil Infrastructure And Economic Plans At Risk
The Houthi offensive has added to the pressure on MBS, whose ambitious plans to diversify Saudi Arabia’s oil-dependent economy are already facing financial challenges.
The WSJ reported that the attacks have targeted airports, refineries and the kingdom’s East-West oil pipeline, a crucial route for exporting crude oil without passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
The growing threat also puts Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions and major investment projects at risk, including plans linked to its Vision 2030 programme.
According to the report, Riyadh has sought additional military assistance from Pakistan and other partners while continuing to explore diplomatic options. The United States has sent military advisers but has so far resisted Saudi requests for help in rolling back the Houthi advance.
Quick Answers
Ask News18Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is being shuttled between fortified palaces under the protection of a handpicked security team as Houthi missile and drone attacks on the kingdom intensify.
Ask News18About the Author
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, …Read More
October 13, 2026, 01:08 IST
Read More
Source link
[ad_3]
