Sanaa, Yemen: Tensions have sharply escalated in Yemen after reports emerged that Saudi Arabia carried out airstrikes targeting Sanaa International Airport while an Iranian civilian aircraft operated by Mahan Air was reportedly approaching for landing.
According to reports, the aircraft was the second Iranian civilian plane to attempt a landing in Houthi-controlled Yemen after another flight reportedly landed last week for the first time in nearly a decade. Saudi Arabia has maintained restrictions on airports under Ansar Allah (Houthi) control since the Yemen conflict began.
Ansar Allah officials accused Saudi Arabia of deliberately striking the airport’s runway to prevent the aircraft from landing. In a statement, an Ansar Allah spokesperson described the attack as a “blatant and impudent act of aggression,” saying it had brought the de-escalation phase to an end and warning that the strike “will not go unanswered.”
Unconfirmed reports suggest the Mahan Air aircraft later diverted and landed at Al Hudaydah Airport after the runway at Sanaa International Airport was reportedly damaged. The aircraft’s transponder was reportedly switched off during the latter part of the flight, and its final destination has not been independently verified.
Meanwhile, sources affiliated with Ansar Allah claimed that the ceasefire with Saudi Arabia is effectively over, accusing Riyadh of reigniting hostilities through the reported attack.
As of now, Saudi Arabian authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the reported airstrikes or the alleged diversion of the Iranian aircraft. Independent verification of several claims remains unavailable.
The developments mark a potentially significant escalation in the regional security situation and could further heighten tensions involving Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and Iran.
