Israeli Strike Causes $500 Million in Damage to Sanaa Airport, Houthis Say

An Israeli airstrike on the airport in Sanaa, Yemen’s capital, resulted in widespread destruction and an estimated $500 million in damages, according to the airport’s director, who spoke to media aligned with the terrorists.

“Around $500 million in losses were caused by the Israeli aggression on Sanaa airport,” said Khaled al-Shaief, the general director of the facility, in an interview with the Houthis’ Al-Masirah TV channel.

Al-Shaief reported that the strike obliterated terminal structures, all supporting equipment, and completely flattened a storage facility. “The enemy destroyed the terminals at Sanaa airport, including all equipment and devices,” he stated, noting that a warehouse was also “completely leveled.”

The damage extended to Yemenia Airways, which reportedly lost three of its aircraft. In total, six planes were destroyed in the attack, al-Shaief said.

He mentioned that while there are short-term alternatives to partially reopen the airport, full restoration and the return of regular operations will require a significant amount of time and resources.

Sanaa airport had only resumed international service in 2022, following a six-year hiatus, with Yemenia offering flights to Amman, Jordan. The airport has served as a vital lifeline for Yemenis seeking urgent medical care abroad.

Anees Alasbahi, spokesperson for the Houthi health ministry, told AFP that the strike would worsen the humanitarian situation. “The attack will increase human suffering for sick people who need to travel abroad for treatment,” he said, adding that it could also hinder the delivery of critical medical supplies.