Saudi-led coalition forces, Houthis trade blows; 16 dead in Sanaa, Hodeida

Saudi-led coalition forces exchanged fire with Houthi rebels in Yemen, resulting in at least 16 deaths, according to Houthi media reports. The Houthi group claimed strikes across the country, including Sanaa, Hodeida, and Mocha. In response, the coalition reported destroying two ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis towards Saudi cities Taif and Yanbu.

Houthi media reported casualties in Sanaa and Hodeida, with strikes hitting houses, residential buildings, and a cement factory worker's area. In Hodeida, a strike killed five family members. The Saudi-led coalition warned of potential danger in four western regions, including Taif, Yanbu, Jeddah, and Makkah. Falling debris was reportedly reported near Makkah and Madina, prompting a response from the Saudi Civil Defence Agency.

Houthis extended their attacks to Aden, targeting King Khalid International Airport, King Fahd International Airport, an airport in Najran, and an airbase in Khamis Mushait. They also struck Aramco facilities and oil refineries in Yanbu and Rabigh. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the Aden attack, stating that Saudi officers were overseeing mobilization there. The US Embassy in Riyadh and the US Mission to the United Arab Emirates issued updated travel advisories in response to the heightened threats.