Riyadh schools switch to remote learning for a week amid Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

Schools in the Saudi capital Riyadh have switched to remote learning for a week as Iran-backed Houthi rebels continue to launch attacks against Saudi Arabia.

According to AFP, schools in Riyadh sent emails to parents Sunday (local time) informing them that in-person classes were suspended and that instruction would move online.

The schools said in the emails that the suspension was ordered by Saudi authorities.

However, Saudi authorities did not explain why they made the switch to remote learning.

Parents in Riyadh expressed frustration at the abrupt notification.

"If this is a decision that affects all students for a week, the reasons should be explained clearly and transparently," one parent said.

The move comes as the Houthi rebels have stepped up attacks targeting Saudi Arabia.

The Houthis have intensified their campaign against the kingdom since a truce that had held for years collapsed in July.

The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted drones and ballistic missiles aimed at Saudi Arabia on Saturday (local time).

According to the UN Security Council, recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia have wounded civilians, including women and children.