Saudi Arabia Says Houthi Attacks on Airports Kill Three and Injure 36

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia says three civilians have been killed and 36 others injured in attacks targeting two airports, with Yemen's Houthi movement claiming responsibility for the strikes.

The attacks reportedly targeted Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the group carried out the attacks using ballistic missiles and drones, describing them as a response to what the Houthis called Saudi “aggression” against Yemen.

Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation said it was working with security authorities to assess the damage and ensure the safety of passengers and airport employees.

The reported attacks represent a significant escalation in fighting between Yemen's internationally recognised government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement.

Fighting spreads across Yemen

The violence has also affected Yemen's main government-controlled international gateway.

Yemeni authorities said the Houthis launched ballistic missiles and drones at Aden airport early Wednesday. No casualties were reported at the facility, which serves as an important international gateway for areas of Yemen outside Houthi control.

The latest escalation comes as fighting intensifies across Yemen, where the Houthis control large parts of the north-western region.

The movement has also seized strategically important areas along the Red Sea coast, further complicating an already fragile security situation.

Regional condemnation

The reported attacks on Saudi airports have drawn condemnation from several governments and regional organisations.

Kuwait, Syria and Egypt, along with the Muslim World League, condemned the attacks and expressed concern over the reported civilian casualties.

The renewed violence has also raised concerns over the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, particularly as displacement continues to increase.

According to the United Nations, more than 200,000 people have been displaced inside Yemen since the civil war reignited in July.

The latest attacks underscore the continuing volatility of Yemen's conflict, with civilian infrastructure, transport links and regional security once again facing heightened risks.

As fighting continues, diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation remain under pressure, while humanitarian organisations face the challenge of assisting communities affected by renewed displacement and insecurity.