Saudi Arabia intercepts Houthi missile attack launched in retaliation for earlier strikes on Sana'a

Yemen's Houthis launched missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting Abha International Airport, in retaliation for alleged Saudi airstrikes on Sana'a International Airport. This exchange of fire on Monday, July 13, 2026, marks the first Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia since a March 2022 truce, threatening renewed conflict. The Saudi-led coalition confirmed intercepting missiles, while Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree stated they had targeted Abha. Yemen's internationally recognized government claimed responsibility for the Sana'a airport strikes, stating the runway was targeted to prevent an Iranian plane from landing in violation of Yemeni sovereignty. The Houthis called the Saudi strikes "blatant aggression" and warned airlines against flying in Saudi airspace until the "siege" on Sana'a airport is lifted. An ICRC plane was also reportedly detained at Sana'a airport amid these escalating tensions.