**Title: Yemen Government Claims Strike on Sanaa Airport to Thwart Iranian Aircraft**
**Date: July 13, 2026**
In a significant escalation of tensions in Yemen, the internationally recognized government has announced that its forces executed an airstrike on Sanaa International Airport. The operation was reportedly aimed at preventing an Iranian aircraft from landing at the facility, which is currently under the control of the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels.
In an official statement released on Monday, the Yemeni government accused the Houthi militia of obstructing Yemeni national aircraft from landing at the airport. The government claimed that the Houthis insisted on allowing the Iranian aircraft to violate Yemeni airspace, leading to the decision to target the airport runway.
"The Houthi terrorist militia, supported by the Iranian regime, prevented Yemeni national aircraft from landing at the capital’s airport, Sanaa, and insisted that the Iranian aircraft violate Yemeni airspace. Therefore, the airport runway was targeted," the statement read.
The conflict in Yemen has been ongoing since 2014, when the Houthis seized control of the capital, Sanaa, prompting a military intervention led by Saudi Arabia in support of the Yemeni government. The government, which operates from Aden in the southern part of the country, has received backing from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states in its efforts to reclaim territory held by the Houthis.
In light of the airstrike, the Yemeni Defence Ministry issued a warning to civilians, airport workers, diplomatic missions, and humanitarian organizations, urging them to evacuate the airport and its surrounding areas immediately. The ministry indicated that the situation was precarious and required immediate action for safety.
In response to the strike, Houthi officials condemned the attack and vowed to retaliate. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree characterized the airstrike as an act of aggression and stated, "This aggression will not go unanswered or unpunished." However, the Houthis did not provide specific details or evidence to support their claims regarding the involvement of Saudi Arabia in the attack.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for potential further escalations. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has already resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions of people in need of assistance and widespread displacement across the country.
As the situation develops, international observers are closely monitoring the implications of this latest military action, particularly in the context of regional tensions involving Iran and its support for the Houthis. The conflict has drawn in various external actors, complicating efforts for a peaceful resolution.
This incident marks another chapter in the protracted conflict in Yemen, highlighting the fragile state of security in the region and the potential for further violence as both sides react to the escalating hostilities.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.