Sana. The airport of Yemen's port city Aden was attacked by two missiles on Friday night. The local police has blamed Iran-backed Houthi rebels for this. Officials say there are no casualties reported in the attack. This is reported to be the second attack on the airport in less than ten days.
Missiles fell about 500 meters away from the plane
The Information Minister of the Yemen government said that the missiles fell about 500 meters away from a plane of Yemenia Airways. This plane was preparing to take off. A security official said the passengers on board the plane were immediately evacuated.
Sabah, a news agency controlled by Houthi rebels, quoted a military officer as saying that the group had targeted a military base located near the airport. According to the official, this base has a command center and weapons stockpile of the Saudi-led army.
Second major attack in Aden in two days
This is the second major attack in Aden within two days. Earlier on Thursday, Houthi rebels had attacked the premises of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The complex is the center of Yemen's internationally recognized government. Five people were killed in that attack. According to officials, on October 7 also two missiles were fired at Aden Airport. There was no report of anyone being injured in that attack either.
Yemen's Transport Ministry described the attack as a planned attempt to target vital infrastructure and government assets. The ministry alleged that the actions of the Houthi rebels were endangering the safety of civilians.
In fact, fighting in Yemen has intensified again in recent months. The conflict has escalated amid tensions related to the broader Iran war. Houthi rebels have also targeted airports, oil bases and military facilities in neighboring Saudi Arabia.
Tension also on Red Sea and Bab Al Mandeb Strait
Houthi rebels have also increased their hold in the coastal areas of the Red Sea near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. This sea route is important for international trade and is counted among the alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz.
The Saudi-led coalition has launched a major military operation this month to oust Houthi rebels from the area and take back lost territory. Meanwhile, in cities like Taiz of Yemen, ordinary citizens are also facing conflict. The escalating fighting has raised concerns about regional security and global markets.