Escalating Conflict: Saudi Airports Targeted as Yemen Fighting Intensifies Along the Red Sea

Two airports in Saudi Arabia have sustained attacks amid escalating battles between the Houthi rebels and Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces along the western coast near the Red Sea and the strategic Bab Al Mandeb strait.

According to Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, Tuesday's strikes hit King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jizan and Najran International Airport close to the southern border with Yemen. The incidents resulted in material damage and three minor injuries, prompting aviation officials to evaluate security measures and safeguard passenger and staff safety.

The Iran-backed Houthis previously claimed responsibility for Monday night strikes targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, an Aramco refinery in Rabigh, Abha International Airport, and the Khamis Mushait military base, though these claims remained unverified. FlightsRadar24 reported disruptions at Riyadh's main airport, while local residents described hearing explosions and the US mission issued vigilance warnings regarding potential drone and missile threats.

In response to the security situation, Turkey and Pakistan agreed to deploy military forces and capabilities following talks in Riyadh for the Makkah defence pact, pending parliamentary approval in both nations. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition intensified air and naval operations, targeting ballistic missile facilities in Sanaa and Saada, destroying weapons depots and naval mines in Hodeidah, and countering threats in the southern Red Sea.

Concurrently, Yemeni government forces reported securing control of the Bab Al Mandeb strait, the Dhubab area, and Mokha, although the Houthis disputed these territorial claims regarding the critical shipping lane connecting the Mediterranean and Asia.