Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have launched a missile and drone attack on Saudi Arabia’s Abha International Airport, marking a major escalation in regional tensions. The group also warned international airlines against flying through Saudi airspace.
The Houthis claimed the attack was carried out in retaliation for recent strikes on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen’s capital. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) were used to target the Saudi airport. He warned that airlines should take the group’s warning seriously until restrictions on Sanaa Airport are lifted.
Why did the Houthis attack Saudi Arabia?
The latest tensions began after an airstrike on Sanaa International Airport.
The government said its forces targeted the airport to stop an Iranian aircraft from landing. According to officials, the plane was carrying a Houthi delegation returning from the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Yemen’s Defence Ministry accused the Houthis of allowing the Iranian aircraft to violate the country’s airspace and said the airport runway was targeted as part of the operation.
What does this mean?
The latest strike has raised concerns that the fragile peace between Saudi Arabia and the Iran-backed Houthis could collapse after nearly four years.
Saudi Arabia and the Houthis entered a ceasefire following attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure in March 2022. Although the truce officially expired later, both sides had largely avoided direct military confrontation. The latest attack is the first major Houthi strike on Saudi Arabia since that period of relative calm.
Has the US backed Saudi Arabia?
According to a report by Axios, US President Donald Trump has expressed support for Saudi Arabia. Citing American officials, the report said Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sought US backing before launching military operations against Houthi positions. Trump reportedly approved the request, highlighting growing US support for Saudi actions amid rising regional tensions.
The latest developments have increased fears that the conflict in Yemen could once again expand into a wider regional confrontation, with Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United States becoming more deeply involved.
First published on: Jul 14, 2026 11:03 AM IST
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About the Author
Shivam Verma
Shivam Verma is a Chief-Sub-Editor at News24. A postgraduate diploma holder in Integrated Journalism from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai, Shivam focuses on international affairs, diplomacy, defence, and politics. Beyond the newsroom, he is passionate about football, both playing and watching, and enjoys travelling to explore new places and cuisines.
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