Escalation between Houthi rebels and the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen
The internationally recognized government of Yemen, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, carried out airstrikes against the Sanaa International Airport to prevent an Iranian aircraft from landing. The Yemeni Ministry of Defense confirmed that the facility's runway was hit. In retaliation, Houthi rebels launched ballistic missiles and drones targeting the Abha International Airport and King Khalid Air Base in southern Saudi Arabia. The Saudi-led coalition stated that its air defense systems successfully intercepted a ballistic missile fired by the Houthis. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree issued a warning to airlines, advising them to avoid Saudi Arabian airspace until the blockade on Sanaa airport is lifted. Iran condemned the attack on the airport, labeling it a violation of international law and Yemeni sovereignty. Reports suggest potential impacts at both Abha and King Khalid facilities, though official Saudi sources only confirmed the interception of a single missile.