Full Breakdown
Saudi Bombing of Sanaa Airport Breaks 2022 Ceasefire, Triggers Houthi Strikes on Saudi Infrastructure
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Escalation of Hostilities in July 2026
On July 14 2026 the Saudi-led coalition resumed air attacks on Sanaa airport, aiming to prevent an Iranian-chartered plane carrying a Yemeni delegation from landing after the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The aircraft was diverted to Hodeidah and landed safely. The strikes followed a Saudi warning issued after an Iranian flight touched down in Sanaa on July 3. Within two days, Houthi forces launched their heaviest offensive against Saudi-backed troops in years, marking the most intense fighting since the 2022 ceasefire.
Background to the Saudi-Yemen Conflict
Saudi Arabia’s involvement in Yemen began in the 2010s, when Wahhabi clerics were sent into the country, contributing to a 2014 uprising that brought the Zaidi-Shia Houthi movement (Ansar Allah) to power in Sanaa. A U.S.-backed coalition imposed a blockade and extensive bombing campaign, including more than 200 strikes on Sanaa’s airport, before a ceasefire was negotiated in 2022. Since then, the Houthis have expanded drone and missile capabilities with Iranian assistance, targeting regional shipping and Saudi infrastructure.
Official Statements & Responses
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who directed the 2022 campaign, has not publicly commented on the July 14 attacks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The problem for the Saudis is that they experience more damage from Houthi strikes on their infrastructure than the other way around,” — Mr. Gause