Houthis spare holy city airports while Saudi Arabia pledges response

The Houthi movement issued a warning on Sunday exempting airports serving Mecca and Medina from future military operations, while maintaining threats against other Saudi Arabian airspace. The announcement follows a significant attack on Riyadh's international airport that resulted in civilian casualties and deaths.

Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree indicated the group would continue targeting actions in a tit-for-tat response pattern. The statement suggests a degree of restraint regarding two of Saudi Arabia's most sensitive infrastructure points, given their religious significance to Muslims worldwide.

Saudi Arabia has responded to the airport strike with strong condemnation, characterizing the attack as a war crime and a violation of international law. Senior Saudi officials have pledged a forceful response to what they view as a direct challenge to the kingdom's security and sovereignty.

The escalating tensions underscore the ongoing regional conflict involving the Yemen-based Houthi movement and Saudi Arabian interests. The group's decision to exempt the two holy city airports while continuing other military operations reflects the complex dynamics of the broader regional dispute.