Yemen urges global action after Houthi attack on Aden airport

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates strongly condemned the attack carried out by Iran-backed Houthi militias on Aden International Airport early today, involving two ballistic missiles and explosive-laden drones. The assault occurred as a civilian flight was approaching to land, with aircraft, passengers, and airport staff present, putting their lives at immediate risk.
The ministry, in a statement, held the Houthi militias fully responsible for the attack and its consequences. It stressed that targeting this civilian facility, which serves Yemenis from all provinces, represents a serious escalation and a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and civil aviation protection standards, with no justification.

The ministry emphasized that the attack reflects the ongoing terrorist approach, as seen in the December 2020 strike on Aden airport during the government's arrival, attacks on Saudi airports, previous disruptions of flights through Sanaa airport, and the seizure of four Yemenia Airways planes.

It stated that such actions use the intimidation and suffering of civilians as tools for blackmail and disruption of state institutions, exposing the false claims of the militias regarding the interests of Yemenis. The ministry praised the efforts of the relevant authorities to secure the airport and protect passengers and air crews, noting that targeting civilian institutions will not deter the state from protecting its citizens and facilities, ensuring aviation safety, and upholding the right to safe travel.

The ministry warned that the attack threatens regional and international civil aviation safety. It called on the UN Security Council and the international community to condemn the incident, take practical measures to prevent its recurrence, and hold accountable all those who planned, ordered, or participated in the attack in accordance with international law, ensuring no impunity. The ministry also urged the International Civil Aviation Organization and relevant bodies to condemn the attack and strengthen airport and civil aviation protection measures.

The ministry affirmed that ending the coup, restoring state institutions, and disarming the militias are essential to protecting civilians and safeguarding Yemen's security and its neighbors. It called on the international community to support Yemen in asserting sovereignty over its entire territory and upholding its exclusive right to arms within legitimate institutions, thereby preserving Yemen's unity, security, and stability, and enhancing regional and international aviation safety.