Yemen's internationally recognised government claimed responsibility for an airstrike on the runway of Sana'a International Airport on Sunday, saying the operation aimed to prevent an Iranian aircraft carrying a Houthi delegation from landing. The delegation was reportedly returning from the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader in Tehran.
The Iran-aligned Houthi movement blamed Saudi Arabia, its regional rival and backer of the Aden-based government, for the strike. Houthi-run Al-Masirah television reported that Saudi-led forces attacked the runway, while residents told Reuters that warplanes continued to circle the capital. No independent confirmation of casualties or damage has emerged.
The incident marks the most significant escalation between the warring parties in years. Tensions have risen since the Houthis accused Saudi Arabia earlier this month of attacking an Iranian plane that had transported a delegation out of Sana'a, prompting threats of retaliation against Saudi infrastructure. The UN envoy to Yemen has urged de-escalation.