RIYADH – Houthi forces reportedly launched a coordinated missile and drone attack targeting Saudi Arabia’s Abha International Airport and King Khalid Air Base, claiming the operation was retaliation for the earlier strike on Sana’a International Airport.
Saudi air defenses intercepted incoming ballistic missiles and the situation is under control, while the full extent of any damage remains unconfirmed till filing of this report.
⚡🇾🇪🇸🇦 What is happening between Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni Houthis:
— Saudi Arabia struck Sana'a Airport in the Yemeni capital.
— Following their announcement of retaliation, the Houthis struck King Khalid Air Base in southwestern Saudi Arabia.
— The Houthis then struck… pic.twitter.com/OPR4WJ1fL6
— GBC (@GBC_Press) July 13, 2026
A major cross-border escalation unfolded after Houthi (Ansarallah) forces reportedly launched a coordinated wave of ballistic missiles and explosive drones toward southern Saudi Arabia, targeting Abha International Airport and the strategically significant King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait. The strikes were described by the group as retaliation for an earlier attack on Sana’a International Airport.
A range of ballistic missiles and armed drones were used, hitting runways and operational facilities at King Khalid Air Base, which is key hub for the Royal Saudi Air Force. The group argued that the base had been used to support previous military operations against Yemen, making it a legitimate target.
‼️‼️🇸🇦 Abha airport in saudi arabia suspended its flights
Abha International Airport has been plunged into chaos following a targeted Houthi missile and drone strike. The suspension of flights and emergency evacuations at Abha signal that the brittle period of "de-escalation"… pic.twitter.com/hjTNvxqQ2n
— Visioner (@visionergeo) July 13, 2026
Clips and reports circulating online appeared to show smoke rising near King Khalid Air Base, while regional monitoring accounts reported heavy Saudi air defense activity across the Asir Province as interceptor systems engaged multiple incoming projectiles. Claims also emerged that Abha International Airport was struck during the coordinated assault, although the extent of any damage or casualties remains unconfirmed.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense acknowledged the missile attack, stating that the Kingdom’s air defense systems intercepted ballistic missiles launched by what it described as Houthi terrorist forces toward the southern regions. Officials said defensive operations were successful and that the security situation remained under control.
The latest exchange follows reports that Sana’a International Airport had earlier been struck by British-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles, allegedly launched by Saudi aircraft operating within Saudi airspace. Those claims have not been independently verified, but the Houthis cited the incident as the immediate trigger for their retaliation.
Houthi military officials declared that the previous Yemen–Saudi de-escalation was over, describing the attack on Sana’a Airport as an act of aggression that “will not go unpunished.” He announced that ballistic missiles had been launched toward Saudi territory as part of what the group portrayed as a direct response.
The latest exchange shows a dangerous escalation in cross-border hostilities, with both sides exchanging long-range strikes.
More updates to follow…
