Houthis Issue ‘Final Warning’ to Airlines over Saudi Airspace

Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi armed group has issued a final warning to airlines around the world not to operate flights in Saudi Arabia’s airspace, declaring it a zone of military operations. The group also claimed to have launched a ballistic missile attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the missile hit its target accurately and temporarily disrupted airport operations. Saudi authorities did not immediately comment on or confirm the latest Houthi claim.
Saree said Saudi airspace had become the centre of the group’s military operations. He warned international airlines “for the last time” about the consequences of operating flights there. However, he said the airspace over the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah would be exempt from the warning.
The warning came hours after Saudi Arabia acknowledged an attack on the same airport over the weekend. One person was killed in that attack.
Meanwhile, the US mission in Riyadh on Wednesday advised American citizens in Saudi Arabia to exercise extra caution amid continued Houthi threats to airports and airspace. It warned that flights could be cancelled, airspace could be closed and travel plans could face major disruptions.
In a statement, the US mission urged all American citizens to remain highly alert due to the current security situation in Saudi Arabia and the Houthis’ public threats against the country’s airspace, including civilian airports. It said the conflict could escalate further.
The statement advised US citizens to remain prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions at any time. They were also advised to obtain flight updates directly from their airlines and airport authorities.
The statement also said US government employees working in Saudi Arabia were prohibited from travelling within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to security risks. Special permission would also be required for travel to Jizan, Asir and Najran provinces, as well as the cities of Qatif, Yanbu and Taif.
US citizens were also advised to avoid areas near the Yemen border.