At least 12 people were killed and more than 300 injured in a missile and drone attack on a major airport in Saudi Arabia, officials reported on Monday. The assault was claimed by the Iran-backed Houthi movement based in Yemen, marking a significant escalation in cross-border hostilities.

The attack targeted Abha International Airport in southwestern Saudi Arabia, a key gateway serving the Asir region. Multiple missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles struck the facility late Sunday, causing extensive damage to airport infrastructure and leading to flight disruptions. Local authorities confirmed fatalities among civilians, including passengers and airport staff, and said rescue operations were underway.

The Houthis, engaged in a protracted conflict with the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen since 2015, asserted responsibility for the strike as retaliation for ongoing Saudi military operations in Yemen. In a statement, they described the attack as a response to what they called continued aggression against their territories.

Saudi officials condemned the assault, characterizing it as a terrorist act targeting civilian infrastructure. The kingdom’s military spokesperson emphasized that the Saudi-led coalition would continue its operations against the Houthis and called for international support to confront escalating attacks.

International reactions highlighted concern over the rising violence and its potential to further destabilize the region. Analysts noted that this attack underscored the growing capabilities of the Houthi forces to conduct long-range strikes deep into Saudi territory, posing challenges to the kingdom’s air defenses.

The conflict in Yemen, involving the Iran-backed Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government, has caused widespread humanitarian and security crises. Cross-border attacks have surged in recent months, raising fears of a broader regional escalation.

Authorities in Saudi Arabia have increased security measures at critical infrastructure sites since the outbreak of hostilities and continue to warn of potential retaliatory actions from the Houthis. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the Yemen conflict have seen limited progress amid ongoing hostilities.

The attack on Abha International Airport represents one of the deadliest strikes on Saudi soil in recent years, reflecting the enduring volatility and complexity of the Yemen war and its spillover effects in the region.