BREAKING: YEMENI BALLISTIC MISSILES HIT RIYADH AIRPORT—3 AIRCRAFT STRUCK - w/ Fmr. CIA Larry Johnson

Summary

The host and former CIA officer Larry Johnson discuss escalating attacks between Yemen’s Houthi forces and Saudi Arabia, along with their possible regional and economic consequences.

Attacks on Saudi Arabia

The host describes reports that Saudi Arabia struck missile launchers in Yemen, while missiles attributed to the Houthis hit targets in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh airport, where three aircraft were reportedly damaged or destroyed, and oil infrastructure.

Johnson argues that destroying one launcher would not prevent further launches. He suggests the Houthis may have additional launchers or use decoys to draw Saudi fire, and questions the effectiveness of Saudi air defenses.

Saudi Support and the Yemen Conflict

The discussion considers possible Turkish and Pakistani assistance to Saudi Arabia. Johnson doubts either country will provide substantial forces or high-end equipment, and says the arrangements appear defensive rather than part of a plan to attack the Houthis. He also notes that Pakistan denied reports that its fighter jets had struck targets in Yemen.

Johnson predicts the Houthis may press toward Taiz and Marib, potentially threatening oil and gas routes and the port of Aden. He portrays Saudi Arabia as financially constrained and increasingly vulnerable if the conflict continues.

Iran and Regional Tensions

Johnson rejects claims that the Houthis are wholly dependent on Iran, describing their relationship instead as one involving assistance and technical support.

The speakers discuss reports of Iranian attacks on Kurdish and Baluchi groups near Iran’s borders. Johnson says Pakistan could oppose Balochi separatist violence alongside Iran. They also mention a report that some Gulf states may be paying Iran for safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Johnson considers this plausible but offers no independent confirmation.

Possible US Action Against Iran

The speakers refer to conflicting reports about US plans for strikes on Iran and Trump’s public denials. Johnson says such statements are difficult to trust and questions whether an attack could achieve its goals, given that Iranian missile infrastructure is underground and US capabilities may be reduced.

They discuss a reported Pentagon plan for a short campaign targeting missile and drone assets, energy infrastructure, and IRGC command centers. Johnson regards the strategy as questionable.

Dubai–Tel Aviv Flight Incident

Johnson says Israel’s reported advance screening of passengers and crew from Dubai may have failed. He shares an experienced pilot’s theory that the attacker may have been used as a “patsy” in an intelligence operation, but presents this as speculation rather than established fact.

Wider Economic Risks

Johnson argues that disruption to sulfur supplies could threaten fertilizer production and, over time, food supplies. He says Gulf countries provide about a quarter of the world’s sulfur and warns that shortages, higher diesel costs, and reduced shipping capacity could contribute to famine risks in the following year.

He also notes that Russia’s retention of diesel and sulfur for domestic needs could further tighten global supply.

Presenters and Contributors

• Larry Johnson — former CIA officer and guest contributor
• Host/interviewer — unnamed in the subtitles