Saudi Arabia Launches Airstrikes Near Sanaa Airport to Block Iranian Plane Landing

Saudi Arabia initiated a series of airstrikes near Sanaa International Airport, controlled by the Houthi terrorist organization, aiming to prevent the landing of an Iranian aircraft. This escalation occurred shortly after an Iranian executive jet successfully landed at the airport, breaking a four-year Saudi-imposed air blockade. The Iranian plane reportedly stayed on the ground for about an hour before departing, carrying a delegation for urgent talks with Houthi leadership.

According to Yemen's official news agency, the Saudi strikes targeted the airport's runways. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree condemned the attacks as unjust and warned Saudi Arabia of consequences, stating, "This attack will not pass without a response." The Houthi Transportation Ministry accused Saudi Arabia of criminal airstrikes encouraged by American and Zionist support, aimed at maintaining the blockade on Yemeni ports and airports.

Witnesses in Sanaa confirmed the Iranian plane's landing, identified by some reports as belonging to Mahan Air. A Houthi source declared that Saudi Arabia had broken the four-year ceasefire and urged regional countries to prepare for further developments. This incident follows recent tensions when Houthis claimed to have fired on Saudi warplanes attempting to block another Iranian landing, threatening to target critical Saudi infrastructure.

The situation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, with both sides exchanging threats and military actions around key strategic points in Yemen.