Yemen Conflict: Coalition Destroys Houthi Missile Launchers

Saudi-led coalition forces destroyed four ballistic missile launchers and five missile storage tunnels on Monday. The operation targeted infrastructure in Yemen controlled by the Houthi movement. Coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki stated the strikes aimed to neutralize sources of threat. He added that the campaign focused on cutting supply lines between areas under Houthi control.

The attacks also hit fortifications and military equipment along front lines inside Yemen. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree responded by claiming new strikes. Saree said a ballistic missile hit Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport with precision. He also reported drone attacks on oil pumping stations in Saudi Arabia. In a separate statement, Saree claimed responsibility for missile attacks on government positions in Aden and Lahij governorates.

Al-Maliki countered that Saudi air defenses intercepted and destroyed one ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh. The coalition said it intercepted at least ten ballistic missiles on Sunday. The Kingdom's civil defense agency reported two injuries from falling debris in the south. Officials also noted damage to several buildings and vehicles. Images from the official press agency showed shattered windows and exposed metal rods on a damaged structure.

The airport reopened on Sunday after a temporary closure. The closure followed a deadly attack this month that killed 13 people and wounded more than 300. It was the deadliest strike on the Kingdom in over a decade. The disruption forced Saudi Arabia to postpone its flagship investment conference until 2027. The Houthis warned travelers to avoid the facility, labeling it a military target.

The conflict reignited in the summer when the Houthis announced a maritime blockade. Saudi Arabia intervened in 2015 to support the internationally recognized government. A 2022 truce collapsed last month. The Houthis then seized much of the Red Sea coast from government forces. They also attacked Saudi energy facilities and airports.

Government forces launched a counteroffensive called Operation Yemen Dawn this month. The goal is to recapture territory held by the Houthis. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday. The two discussed a US-made Patriot air defense system. Greece deployed the battery to protect energy infrastructure in Yanbu in 2021.

Mitsotakis agreed to keep the system in Saudi Arabia. His office stated the decision reflects current challenging circumstances. The system protects facilities on the Red Sea coast. The coalition continues operations as both sides claim fresh victories.