Narrow Escape: Houthis Target Aden Airport With Missiles
Yemen's government accuses Houthi militia of firing missiles at Aden International Airport, narrowly missing a flight to Cairo.
In a chilling incident that could have resulted in a massive loss of life, the internationally recognised government of Yemen has accused the Houthi militia of launching a missile attack on the Aden International Airport. The missiles reportedly struck the vicinity of a passenger aircraft that was preparing for takeoff, sparking outrage over the targeting of civilian infrastructure.
A Near-Catastrophe on the Runway
The details of the incident were revealed by Yemen's Information Minister, Moammar Al-Eryani, via a post on X. According to the Minister, the attack targeted the airport while Yemenia Airlines flight IY 612 was gearing up for its departure to Cairo International Airport.
The precision of the danger was stark: the two missiles reportedly landed approximately 500 metres from the aircraft and a mere 100 metres from the centre of the runway. Al-Eryani attributed the safety of the passengers and crew to divine providence, stating that a "horrific humanitarian catastrophe" was narrowly avoided, which could have claimed the lives of dozens of innocent travelers.
Violation of International Norms
The Yemeni government has condemned the act not just as a military strike, but as a direct assault on civilian safety and international law. Minister Al-Eryani emphasized that targeting a civilian airport is a grave violation of global norms.
"What occurred was not merely an assault on a civilian airport, but a direct threat to the lives of passengers and flight crews, to aviation safety, and a grave violation of international laws and norms," Al-Eryani stated.
Impact on the Yemeni People
Beyond the immediate danger to the flight, the government highlighted the critical role Aden International Airport plays in the daily lives of Yemeni citizens. The facility serves as a lifeline for thousands, including:
- Patients traveling abroad for essential medical treatment.
- Students pursuing their education in foreign institutions.
- Expatriates returning to their families or leaving for work.
The Minister argued that attacking such a vital gateway is not a military victory, but rather an attack on the basic rights of the Yemeni people, including their rights to healthcare, education, and mobility.
Government Resolve
In the wake of the attack, the Yemeni state reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its citizens and vital facilities. Al-Eryani noted that the government, with the continued support of the Coalition to Support Legitimacy led by Saudi Arabia, will remain steadfast in its efforts to eliminate the Houthi threat and restore security and stability across the nation.