Yemen’s primary international airport in the rebel-controlled capital Sanaa has temporarily halted all flights due to extensive damage caused by Israeli airstrikes earlier this week.
The airport’s director announced the closure on Wednesday, explaining that essential facilities, such as the control tower, runway, and terminal buildings, were severely damaged during the strikes on Tuesday. The attack is part of a growing military response by Israel to recent Houthi-launched missiles that targeted its territory.
The shutdown of Sana’a International Airport is not just a logistical problem — it’s a humanitarian crisis. The airport has been an essential route for medical evacuations, humanitarian assistance, and restricted civilian travel, operating under un-brokered agreements. Due to the suspension of operations, crucial relief efforts are now facing potential delays.
Concerned international observers, including the United Nations, have expressed alarm over the increasing violence and the deliberate destruction of civilian infrastructure, urging for immediate restraint and the safeguarding of vital facilities.
What’s the next step?
The reopening of the airport has not been announced, as officials are currently evaluating the extent of the damage and seeking assistance for the reconstruction process.