Yemen Conflict Escalates With Saudi Airport Attack; Israel Prepares for Iran Scenario

A Yemeni anti-Houthi official, speaking from Riyadh, stated that the Houthi rebels have intensified their attacks due to defeats on their home turf in Yemen, according to Kan News. The official specifically linked the Houthi assault on Riyadh's international airport to their battlefield losses, particularly in the Bab el-Mandeb area. This attack follows a significant blow to Saudi Arabia's civilian infrastructure over the past weekend, marking the deadliest for Saudi civilians in over a decade. The Yemeni source explained that the Houthis are escalating their actions to boost morale among their fighters, as they face international condemnation and are perceived as a global threat. Hopes within the pro-Saudi camp in Yemen are that this attack will serve as a turning point, prompting regional and international players to offer more substantial support to Saudi Arabia against the Houthis, recognizing the threat extends beyond Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia's Civil Aviation Authority reported that 12 people were killed and 309 injured in the Houthi attack on King Khalid International Airport. Among the fatalities were four Saudi citizens, two from Bangladesh, and one each from the United States, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, the Palestinian Authority, and Sudan. The death toll rose to 13 with the subsequent death of an Indian national. The attack disrupted airport operations and led to passenger evacuations. This incident represents a serious escalation in attacks on civilian targets in Saudi Arabia amid the ongoing conflict in Yemen. Saudi Arabia also reported a subsequent rocket strike on Terminal 4 of the airport, causing a fire, and its military announced the interception of a cruise missile near Riyadh.

Meanwhile, in Israel, preparations are underway for the possibility that U.S. President Donald Trump might order a renewed campaign against Iran before Israel's elections. This concern arises from continued Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and intelligence suggesting Iran has accelerated the repair of its ballistic missile and drone production lines. One scenario being considered in Israel is that the Trump administration could give Israel the "green light" to attack Iran, a development that could impact the election timing. However, an Israeli official downplayed the likelihood of an attack before the elections. Israel is engaged in strategic discussions with its regional allies, including the U.S. military and countries like the UAE and Bahrain that have been targeted by Iran. Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the Houthi attack on the Riyadh airport.