Houthis warn the US of a painful response if it enters the Yemen war, raising the stakes after deadly attacks on Riyadh's airport. President Donald Trump is considering supporting Saudi strikes as the region faces renewed missile threats and mounting disruption to flights and energy supplies.
Houthi Warning to Washington
Mohammed Al Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi political bureau, said Monday, October 12, that any direct American role in Saudi military operations against the group would draw a rapid response against US interests in the region. He also warned people working at Saudi airports and oil facilities to stay away. The statements come as Washington faces Saudi requests for greater help with an escalating campaign of missile and drone attacks.
Riyadh Airport Attack Casualties
A strike on King Khalid International Airport on October 10 killed at least 13 people and injured more than 300, according to Saudi authorities. Another attack on Sunday killed one person and wounded several others. The Houthi airport attacks forced the suspension of flights and heightened concern for passengers and airport workers. Saudi officials said they would respond to the attacks, while investigations continued into how incoming missiles reached the airport.
Trump Weighs Saudi Military Support
Donald Trump described the deadly strike as unacceptable and said the US was considering joining Saudi military operations against the Houthis. He later confirmed speaking with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman but did not announce a decision to launch American strikes. The United States has provided intelligence and planning support to Saudi forces, but direct involvement would represent a significant escalation. Any military action remains a possibility, not a confirmed commitment.
Saudi Air Defense Interceptions
Explosions were heard over Riyadh again on Monday. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted ballistic missiles aimed at the capital, while the Houthis claimed another attempt to strike the airport. Public warnings briefly disrupted activity in the city. The repeated Riyadh missile attacks have intensified scrutiny of Saudi air defenses and raised wider concerns about the security of airports, Saudi oil facilities and commercial travel.
Yemen War and Regional Risks
The conflict in Yemen has intensified since July, after years of fighting between the Houthis and forces backed by the internationally recognized government. Further intervention could threaten Red Sea shipping and add pressure to already unsettled energy markets. The Yemen humanitarian crisis also remains severe, with civilians facing renewed risks as attacks and counterattacks continue. For now, the next steps depend on decisions in Washington, Riyadh and Yemen.
