Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation authority confirmed that two of the kingdom’s regional airports were struck on Monday evening. King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jazan and Najran International Airport both suffered missile and drone attacks attributed to Yemen’s Iran‑backed Houthis. The assaults injured three individuals and caused only limited structural damage.
Immediate response and safety measures
The General Authority of Civil Aviation said teams are assessing the damage and have taken steps to ensure the safety of passengers and staff. “We are working closely with security forces to secure the airfield and protect the travelling public,” the authority stated. Flights were temporarily suspended at both locations while inspections continued.
Broader conflict context
The attacks come amid a sharp escalation in the Saudi‑Yemeni conflict. Saudi‑backed Yemeni government forces have launched a major offensive to retake territory that the Houthis seized in recent weeks. Riyadh has stepped up its own air campaign in support of the Yemeni government, targeting Houthi positions across the border.
In retaliation, the Houthis have intensified their missile and drone campaign against Saudi targets, including airports, oil facilities and military installations. Their stated goal is to pressure the kingdom into halting its support for the Yemeni government and to force a political settlement.
Regional implications
Analysts note that attacks on civilian infrastructure, such as airports, raise the risk of broader disruption to regional trade and travel. The Jazan region, a key gateway to the Red Sea, and Najran, a border province near Yemen, are both strategically important for Saudi logistics and security.
U.S. and allied partners have repeatedly urged all parties to protect civilian sites and to avoid actions that could endanger non‑combatants. The Saudi government has warned that any further attacks on its civilian infrastructure will be met with decisive military response.
What’s next for travelers?
Airlines operating in the affected airports have been advised to monitor the situation closely. Passengers with upcoming flights are encouraged to check with their carriers for possible schedule changes or rerouting. The aviation authority assures the public that safety remains the top priority and that normal operations are expected to resume once inspections are complete.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
