Loud explosions heard in Riyadh as Middle East conflict escalates
Media reports in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, said residents heard a loud bang and multiple explosions on Saturday, amid a major escalation after the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran. The exact source of the blasts in Riyadh hundreds of kilometers from Iran has not been confirmed, but they occurred as Iran vowed retaliation and launched missile attacks across the Gulf region.
The joint US–Israeli offensive targeted several Iranian cities, including Tehran, striking military sites, missile production facilities, and areas near the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader. President Donald Trump described the actions as “major combat operations,” citing Iran’s ongoing nuclear and missile programs.
In Riyadh, residents described hearing the explosions and reacted with alarm.
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Saudi authorities have not issued an immediate explanation, and it remains unclear whether the sounds were the result of intercepted missiles, air defense activity, or distant Iranian strikes.
Regional escalation — explosions and missile strikes beyond Riyadh
Similar reports of explosions and military actions emerged across the Gulf:
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Residents reported loud booms and blasts, prompting temporary airspace closures. The city hosts U.S. military personnel, though the cause of the explosions is not yet clear.
Bahrain (Manama) – Explosions were heard near the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters, with smoke rising from the Juffair district amid missile attacks.
Qatar – Missile defenses reportedly intercepted incoming Iranian missiles, with explosions heard across parts of the country.
Kuwait – Civil defense sirens sounded alongside multiple blasts linked to regional missile activity.
Authorities in several Gulf states temporarily closed airspace as a precaution, and Iran vowed further retaliation against U.S. and Israeli actions.