Houthis Claim Attacks on Two Saudi Airports as Civilian Toll Reaches 39

Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis have claimed responsibility for attacks on two airports in Saudi Arabia, after Saudi authorities reported that three civilians were killed and 36 people injured.

The attacks targeted Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport, according to the reported details. The incidents took place on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesperson, said the group carried out the strikes using ballistic missiles and drones. He described the attacks as a response to what the Houthis called “the Saudi aggression” against Yemen.

The claim of responsibility has been attributed to the Houthis and was not independently verified in the supplied report.

Airport authorities assess damage

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation said it was working with “relevant security authorities” to assess damage and protect passengers and airport workers.

The authority’s statement did not provide a breakdown of the reported deaths and injuries by airport. Saudi Arabia said the casualties included three civilians killed and 36 people injured.

Authorities also said the Houthis launched ballistic missiles and drones against Aden airport early on Wednesday. Aden airport is the main international gateway for parts of Yemen outside Houthi control. No casualties were reported at the facility.

Attacks amid renewed fighting

The airport strikes come amid renewed fighting between Saudi-backed forces supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government and the Houthis, who are backed by Iran.

The Houthis control much of north-western Yemen and have seized strategically important parts of the Red Sea coast in recent weeks, according to the supplied background. Fighting has continued as the conflict has escalated.

The United Nations has reported that more than 200,000 people have been displaced within Yemen since the civil war reignited in July.

Kuwait, Syria, Egypt and the Muslim World League condemned the Houthi attacks on the Saudi airports.