Smoke and Flames Rise Near Saudi Aramco Facility Located in Riyadh

Dense plumes of smoke and heavy flames were observed rising on Saturday near a Saudi Aramco site in Riyadh, according to an eyewitness report cited by Reuters. Meanwhile, Arab and international media outlets circulated video footage and satellite imagery documenting a massive fire breaking out within the capital's territory. Up to this moment, official Saudi authorities have issued no confirmation regarding the incident, and Aramco has not responded to inquiries regarding the situation. No entity has formally claimed responsibility for the fire; however, Houthi political bureau member Hezam al-Asad posted on the X platform following the incidents, stating that capitals respond to capitals and those whose capital depends on oil should not ignite fires in others. These events coincide with escalating military tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni Houthi movement. Last week, the Houthis claimed responsibility for targeting Aramco facilities in Yanbu using drones and missiles, whereas Saudi officials previously confirmed intercepting six ballistic missiles directed toward Taif and Yanbu, without reporting any damage to Aramco infrastructure.