Trump criticizes Houthis as Saudi Arabia suspends Riyadh airport flights

Trump characterized the Iranian-backed Houthis as "misbehaving," marking his latest criticism of the militant group amid intensifying cross-border attacks. The US President's remarks come as regional tensions simmer over the group's repeated targeting of Saudi Arabian infrastructure and commercial shipping routes.

Saudi Arabia's suspension of flights at King Fahd Road Airport in Riyadh reflects ongoing security concerns stemming from Houthi drone and missile strikes. The decision underscores the tangible impact the group's military capabilities have had on civilian operations across the kingdom, one of the world's most strategically important aviation hubs.

The Houthis have significantly escalated their attacks in recent months, utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles and ballistic missiles to strike targets across Saudi Arabia. The group, which controls northwestern Yemen, has framed its operations as retaliation for Saudi-led military interventions in the country's civil conflict.

The temporary airport closure represents a notable disruption to Saudi Arabia's transport network and signals the authorities' assessment of the immediate security threat. Regional analysts have warned that without diplomatic intervention, the cycle of tit-for-tat attacks between the Houthis and their opponents is likely to continue.