The Houthi group, labeled as a terrorist organization by the U.S., claims that Saudi Arabia has launched an airstrike on Sanaa airport, which raises concerns about a renewed conflict involving Iran’s proxies.
After a cease-fire with the Saudi-led coalition in 2022, the Houthis have recently intensified their actions, particularly against commercial shipping in the Red Sea, notably after aligning with Hamas following the Israeli incursions on October 7, 2023. The escalation in hostilities could signify a return to warfare between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.
Yahya Salih, a military spokesperson for the Houthis, described the Saudi attack as a “blatant invasion,” asserting that the truce period has ended. He warned that Saudi Arabia would face repercussions and hinted at possible attacks on King Khalid Airport in Riyadh. In reaction to this, Iran’s Press TV condemned the airstrike, claiming it infringes upon both international law and Yemen’s sovereignty.
Earlier on Monday, Yemen’s Ministry of Defense revealed that the Sanaa airport runway was targeted to obstruct Iranian aircraft from landing. However, contrary reports indicated that a plane eventually landed at Hodeidah airport instead.
Salman al-Ansari, a Saudi geopolitical analyst, suggested that the Houthis are now in a precarious situation, trying to prove their value to Iran amidst the ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions.
An official from Yemen asserted that the actions were a rightful response to violations of their airspace, emphasizing that the Houthis had allowed unauthorized Iranian military flights, violating international laws. Al-Ansari further noted that the legitimate Yemeni government now controls over 80% of the country, contrasting with previous years of division and conflict.
He also mentioned that the conflict transcends aviation issues; it illustrates the Houthis’ growing importance as Iranian allies, especially as other regional partners weaken. The situation could have broader implications, beyond just local dynamics.
In a recent Telegram article, a Houthi Politburo member claimed that the Bab al-Mandab Strait might join the Strait of Hormuz in disruption due to the alleged Saudi attack, insinuating a potential spike in oil prices that could fuel further hostilities.
A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department confirmed awareness of the reports and reaffirmed the U.S.’s steadfast partnership with Saudi Arabia against Iranian aggression, continuing to classify the Houthis as a terrorist organization.
The U.S. is committed to ensuring navigation safety in the Red Sea and is focused on countering threats posed by Iranian-backed groups in the region.
