Houthis Launch Ground Raids and Air Strikes in Saudi Arabia
Houthi militants conducted cross-border ground raids and air strikes against Saudi Arabia, prompting the postponement of the AFC Asian Cup until 2027.
The Houthi militant group escalated its campaign against Saudi Arabia on November 3, transitioning from daily aerial attacks to cross-border ground raids in the kingdom's southwestern mountainous regions. These incursions resulted in the capture of Saudi border security surveillance equipment and small arms.
Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree claimed the group targeted Abha International Airport with a drone and Khamis Mushait Air Base with a ballistic missile. However, Saree later contradicted these claims, stating the group had not carried out operations on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting a drone over the Makkah region.
The instability has caused significant logistical disruptions, leading the Asian Football Confederation to postpone the AFC Asian Cup until late 2027. These military actions occur as Saudi, Turkish, and Pakistani officials meet in Tehran to negotiate with Iran to prevent further regional military escalation.