Government claims operation targeted Houthi-controlled airport
ADEN: Yemen’s Ministry of Defence announced on Monday that government forces carried out a strike on the runway at Sanaa International Airport to prevent an Iranian aircraft from landing, marking another escalation in the country’s long-running conflict.
According to the ministry, the operation specifically targeted the airport’s runway and aimed to disrupt the arrival of the aircraft. Officials did not immediately provide details about the plane’s intended mission, the extent of the damage, or whether any casualties resulted from the strike.
The announcement comes amid heightened regional tensions and continued rivalry between Yemen’s internationally recognised government and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, which has controlled the capital, Sanaa, for years.
Control of key territories remains divided
Meanwhile, Sanaa remains under the authority of the Houthi group, while Yemen’s internationally recognised government continues to operate from the southern port city of Aden with the backing of Saudi Arabia and several Gulf allies.
The latest operation underscores the deep divisions that continue to shape Yemen’s political and military landscape. Government officials have repeatedly accused Iran of providing support to the Houthis, an allegation Tehran has consistently denied.
Furthermore, the incident reflects the broader regional competition that has fueled Yemen’s conflict and complicated efforts to achieve a lasting political settlement. Military activity around strategic infrastructure, including airports and ports, has frequently disrupted civilian transportation and humanitarian operations.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the Iranian aircraft attempted to land following the reported strike or whether flights at Sanaa International Airport were suspended.
The development comes as regional tensions remain elevated, with several Middle Eastern flashpoints contributing to an increasingly fragile security environment. No immediate response was issued by Houthi authorities or Iranian officials regarding Yemen’s claim at the time of reporting.
