Escalation revives conflict after four years of relative calm
SANAA: Fighting between Yemen’s Houthi movement and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government escalated sharply on Monday after both sides exchanged strikes on key airports, effectively ending a four-year truce that had significantly reduced cross-border hostilities.
According to reports, forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognised government launched airstrikes targeting Sanaa International Airport, which remains under Houthi control. The attack marked one of the most significant military actions against the capital’s airport since the ceasefire largely halted major confrontations.
In response, the Houthis launched retaliatory strikes against Abha International Airport in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The attack signaled the group’s return to cross-border operations after years of relative restraint under the truce brokered with regional support.
Regional tensions fuel renewed hostilities
The latest escalation comes amid heightened instability across the Middle East, with regional conflicts intensifying and military confrontations expanding beyond traditional frontlines. Analysts warn that the renewed exchange between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces could further complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting political settlement in Yemen.
The collapse of the truce raises concerns over the safety of civilian infrastructure, particularly airports and transportation hubs that play a critical role in humanitarian assistance and commercial travel. Officials have not yet released comprehensive details regarding casualties or the full extent of the damage caused by the strikes.
Conflict enters a new phase
Military observers believe the latest attacks mark a significant shift in Yemen’s conflict, with both sides demonstrating a willingness to resume direct military engagement after years of relative calm. The Houthis have indicated they are prepared to continue operations if attacks on their territory persist, while the Saudi-backed government has yet to announce whether further military action is planned.
Meanwhile, regional governments and international stakeholders are expected to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent the renewed violence from triggering a broader regional confrontation and further worsening Yemen’s prolonged humanitarian crisis.
This morning, the Saudi-backed Yemeni government bombed the Houthi-controlled Sanaa Int'l Airport. The Houthis retaliated by striking Saudi Arabia's Abha Int'l Airport. This broke a 4-year Houthi-Saudi truce.
THE HOUTHIS ARE BACK IN ACTION.
pic.twitter.com/jg0mHkKPDP— Steve Hanke (@steve_hanke) July 14, 2026
