Houthis target Saudi Arabia

The Houthis, a group controlling about a third of Yemen, are increasing attacks on Saudi Arabia, which supports the internationally recognized government in Aden. These attacks include targeting civilian infrastructure and aim to shift regional focus back to their long-standing conflict with Saudi Arabia.

Deadly attack on Riyadh airport

On October 10, a Houthi attack on Riyadh International Airport killed 13 people and injured hundreds. This was the deadliest incident on Saudi soil since the U.S. and Israel began their offensive against Iran in February. It was followed by additional missile attacks, though less deadly.

Regional tensions and global trade

The attacks occur as Saudi Arabia hosts the World Petroleum Council, an important international conference for oil-producing countries. This timing highlights the regional impasse in the Middle East and the broader impact of the Yemen war on global trade and stability.

Houthis' military capabilities

The Houthi movement, which began in 2004, controls about a third of Yemen's territory, where two-thirds of the population lives. They are the most powerful armed group in the country, despite lacking combat aircraft, and possess long-range missiles and drones.

Iranian proxy narrative

Many observers have labeled the Houthis as proxies for Iran, a major rival of Saudi Arabia. While the movement aligns with Tehran on regional issues, its actions are also influenced by internal Yemeni politics and historical rivalries. Researchers have noted the complexity of this relationship.

Houthi strategy and timing

The Houthi leadership has sought to redefine its military actions to avoid appearing as Iran's puppet. After the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran in February, the Houthis waited several months before escalating against Saudi Arabia, possibly to avoid being seen as acting on Iran's behalf.

Houthis' Red Sea campaign

The Houthis previously attacked ships in the Red Sea to support Palestinians in Gaza, disrupting global supply chains. This campaign showed their ability to affect international trade and gain symbolic support from Arab public opinion, despite their alignment with Iran.

Houthis' return to regional conflict

The Houthi return to the regional conflict in August 2026 focused on Saudi Arabia, shifting from earlier support for Palestinians. While their actions may benefit Iran, the Houthis frame their attacks as national defense against Saudi aggression, not as proxy warfare.

Sanaa airport closure and reopening

In 2026, the Houthis attempted to reopen Sanaa International Airport, which had been closed since 2024 due to Israeli strikes. The Saudi army bombed the airport’s runway as a flight from Tehran approached, reigniting tensions and allowing the Houthis to justify renewed attacks on Saudi Arabia.

Houthi strategy and economic blame

The Houthi attacks aim to shift blame for the economic crisis in their territories from their own governance to the Saudi blockade. This strategy also justifies intensifying the regional conflict and highlights their growing military capabilities to strike Saudi infrastructure.

Ceasefire and diplomatic efforts

In 2025, the Houthis suspended attacks on Israeli-linked ships after a Gaza ceasefire. They also agreed with the Trump administration to stop attacks on U.S. ships in exchange for ending U.S. strikes on their positions. These decisions showed a pragmatic approach to their military actions.

Saudi Arabia's dilemma

Saudi Arabia faces repeated missile attacks from Iran due to its alliance with the U.S. The Houthi attack on Riyadh's airport has trapped the kingdom, with potential consequences for the global economy. The Houthis also control the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical maritime route, increasing their leverage.

Uncertain consequences

The Houthi campaign against Saudi Arabia has created new tensions in the region. The U.S. has shown reluctance to reengage in large-scale conflict, while France's military involvement in Saudi Arabia remains unclear. The situation underscores the suffering of Yemeni civilians, who have endured over a decade of war.