Houthi attacks on Riyadh airport have resumed, with the Iran-aligned group claiming responsibility for new strikes that killed 12 people. The latest escalation follows a wave of missile fire targeting Saudi infrastructure this week.
The Houthi military spokesman said the group carried out several targeted attacks, including the deadly strike at the Saudi capital’s main airport. The attack comes as the United Arab Emirates issued a statement supporting Saudi Arabia, saying it backs measures to protect the kingdom’s security and stability.
- Houthi attacks killed 12 at Riyadh airport.
- The Iran-aligned group claims responsibility for the strikes.
- The UAE expressed support for Saudi Arabia’s security measures.
- The airport was hit twice this week, killing four previously.
- Houthi attacks have damaged aircraft and wounded others.
What Happens Next?
The Houthis have intensified Houthi attacks since a truce with Yemen’s Riyadh-backed government collapsed in July. Missile fire and drone raids have hit Saudi airports, oil facilities, and tankers. These Houthi attacks reflect growing regional tensions involving Iran and Gulf states.
Saudi Arabia has not yet publicly detailed its response. Analysts say the renewed Houthi attacks may deepen divisions within the Gulf, especially after years of proxy conflict in Yemen.
How Did We Get Here?
Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis have simmered for years, rooted in the broader Yemen conflict. The Houthi takeover of Sanaa in 2014 sparked a Saudi-led intervention in 2015. A fragile truce emerged in April 2022 but unraveled by July 2026.
Since then, Houthi attacks have grown more frequent. The group says it targets Saudi sites in retaliation for the blockade on Yemen. Regional powers like the UAE are caught between supporting Riyadh and managing ties with Iran.
Who Is Affected?
Civilians bear the brunt of the Houthi attacks. The Riyadh airport strike killed 12 and wounded others. Aircraft were badly damaged in the recent Houthi attacks.
The UAE’s public backing of Saudi Arabia signals shifting alliances in the Gulf. After quitting OPEC over oil disputes, the UAE now aligns more closely with Riyadh on security matters.
Verified by the source:
- Houthi attacks struck Riyadh airport, killing 12.
- The Houthis claim responsibility.
- The UAE issued a statement of support.
- The airport was targeted twice this week.
- Earlier Houthi attacks killed four people.
Still unconfirmed:
- Exact time of the latest Houthi attacks.
- Full list of casualties from the Riyadh strike.
- Saudi Arabia’s official response to the Houthi attacks.
- Specific targets within the airport hit by Houthi attacks.
- Number of wounded in the most recent Houthi attacks.
This escalation affects global energy markets and Middle East stability. Houthi attacks on Saudi infrastructure risk disrupting oil supplies and shipping routes. The wider Gulf region remains vulnerable to spillover violence, raising concerns among international observers.
The next phase hinges on whether Saudi Arabia escalates its military response to the Houthi attacks. The UN may call for renewed talks as pressure builds on all sides.