Yemen's Houthi forces launched ballistic missiles and drones at Abha International Airport in Saudi Arabia on Monday. The attack was a direct retaliation for air strikes on the runway of Sanaa's airport, which the Houthis blamed on the Saudi-led coalition.
The internationally recognized Yemeni government, based in Aden, claimed responsibility for the Sanaa strikes. It stated the action was taken to prevent an Iranian plane, used by a returning Houthi delegation, from landing, accusing the Houthis of blocking a Yemeni national aircraft.
The Saudi-led coalition reported its air defenses intercepted the incoming missiles. No casualties were immediately reported. The exchange marks the most significant military escalation between the sides in four years.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree warned airlines against using Saudi airspace "until the blockade on Sanaa International Airport is lifted." At an emergency UN Security Council meeting, officials called the situation a dangerous new cycle of escalation in Yemen's long-running war.