DUBAI — Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility on the 8th (local time) for a fresh ballistic missile strike targeting King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital of Riyadh.

According to the rebel group's claims, this follows successive attacks on Saudi airports on the 6th and 7th that resulted in dozens of casualties, marking yet another targeted assault on civilian aviation infrastructure.

Reuters reported that the Houthi leadership further warned that all airspace across Saudi Arabia—with the exception of the holy Islamic sites of Mecca and Medina—could become legitimate military operation targets.

Escalating Tensions and Casualties

Previously, Saudi civil aviation authorities confirmed that King Khalid International Airport and Abha International Airport were struck on the 6th and 7th, leaving a total of 3 dead and 36 injured.

While the aviation authority did not explicitly specify the perpetrators or the exact nature of the assault, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree asserted that the group launched ballistic missiles and drones toward King Khalid International Airport.

The Houthis also claimed responsibility for a wave of multi-front attacks on the 5th, targeting King Khalid International Airport, an Aramco oil facility in the western coastal city of Rabigh, Abha Airport, the nearby Khamis Mushait air base, and various military installations in the Asir, Najran, and Jazan regions.

Background of the Conflict

This intense escalation comes in direct response to a major offensive launched by the Yemeni government forces and the Saudi-led coalition on the 4th, dubbed the "Dawn of Yemen" operation, aimed at recapturing territory controlled by the Houthi rebels. As the coalition steps up its campaign, the Houthis continue to retaliate with aggressive counter-offensive measures.

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