Houthis claim Riyadh airport strike, issue ‘last warning’ to global airlines over Saudi airspace
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the missile “struck its target with precision and caused the disruption of airport operations. “We reiterate our call and warning “for the last time” to all global airlines regarding the consequences of continuing to operate flights in Saudi airspace, which has become a theater for our military operations,” Saree said, adding that the airspace over the “sacred areas” in Mecca and Medina was exempt. The statement came hours after Saudi Arabia said a midweek attack on the same airport had killed one person. We recommend checking your flight departure status directly with the airline and with the airport,” it said.
There was no immediate confirmation from Saudi Arabia of the latest attack claim. The Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including against civilian airports, and the military conflict has the potential to escalate. US citizens should be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions.
“US government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to safety risks and need special authorization to travel to the provinces of Jizan, Asir, Najran, and the cities of Qatif, Yanbu, and Taif. US citizens are advised to not travel near the Yemen border,” it added.