Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels have reported fresh airstrikes against areas under their control, accusing Saudi Arabia of carrying out attacks as tensions across the Middle East continue to rise.
On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Houthi-run Al-Masirah television reported that airstrikes hit several locations in Yemen, including Kamaran Island in the Red Sea, Qanawis district near the port city of Hodeida, and Jawf province along the Saudi border.
Saudi Arabia had not immediately commented on the allegations, leaving responsibility for the reported strikes unconfirmed. The developments came hours after air raid sirens sounded in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, where residents also reported hearing explosions.
Houthis Report Strikes on Several Yemeni Locations
According to Al-Masirah, two airstrikes targeted Kamaran Island, while another hit Qanawis district, approximately 55 kilometres northwest of Hodeida. Additional strikes were reported in Jawf province, which borders Saudi Arabia.
The Houthis also claimed that their forces had shot down a Saudi drone over Saada province in northern Yemen. The group further said it had launched a ballistic missile toward King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
These claims came amid escalating hostilities between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia following recent attacks targeting Saudi territory. Independent confirmation of the latest battlefield claims was not immediately available.
Houthis Warn Airlines Against Flying to Saudi Airports
In a further escalation, Yemen’s Houthi-controlled Foreign Ministry warned international airlines against operating flights to most Saudi airports, describing the routes as unsafe.
The warning reportedly excluded airports serving the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The statement adds to growing concerns about aviation safety as regional hostilities threaten commercial air travel and transport networks.
Airlines and aviation authorities are facing increasing pressure to assess security risks and adjust flight operations where necessary.
Qatar and Egypt Call for Regional Coordination
The latest developments have also prompted diplomatic discussions across the region.
Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, called for stronger security coordination among Gulf countries, highlighting the need to protect maritime routes, energy infrastructure and regional stability.
Meanwhile, Egypt’s foreign minister discussed regional de-escalation with his Iranian counterpart, urging diplomatic efforts to prevent further conflict.
The diplomatic engagement reflects concerns that continued exchanges of attacks could widen instability across the Middle East, affecting civilian populations, commercial shipping and international travel.
Regional Security Concerns Continue to Grow
The reported airstrikes come as the wider Middle East faces mounting military and political tensions. Continued attacks involving Yemen, Saudi Arabia and other regional actors threaten to disrupt trade, aviation and energy supplies.
Although the Houthis have blamed Saudi Arabia for the latest strikes, the allegations have not been independently confirmed. Further statements from the parties involved may clarify the circumstances surrounding the reported attacks.
Swifteradio.com
