The fragile fire between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi movement since
April 2022 is under stress after the Houthis struck Abha airport on Monday in
apparent retaliation for a Saudi airstrike on Sanaa international airport that
took place while an Iranian passenger plane carrying a Houthi delegation was en
route from Tehran. The aircraft ultimately diverted to Hodeidah, renewing
Riyadh’s concern that restoring Tehran–Sanaa flights could facilitate transfers
of weapons, technical support or advisers. The episode highlights that the 2022
truce never became a political settlement; Middle East Institute researcher
Nadwa Al Dawsari says Iran appears to be testing red lines. Mohammed Al Basha of
Basha Report expects attempts next week to reopen Tehran–Sanaa direct flights
and a likely Saudi-led coalition response, though both sides have shown
restraint so far—the coalition may allow the Houthi plane to land in Hodeidah,
Sanaa airport damage is reportedly limited mainly to the runway, and the Houthis
struck Abha rather than major international hubs, which reduces immediate
escalation risk.
