Yemen's Houthi forces announced they repelled an attempt by Saudi warplanes to disrupt an Iranian civilian aircraft landing at Sanaa airport. A Houthi spokesman stated that Saudi jets violated Yemeni airspace and were forced to withdraw after being targeted by air defense missiles. The Iranian plane was carrying over 200 Yemeni citizens, many of whom were sick or wounded, back from Iran. The Houthis issued a stern warning, threatening a comprehensive response to any further Saudi violations of their airspace or aggression. They emphasized their readiness to act against the Saudi-American siege and occupiers. The Houthi spokesman praised Iran's efforts to alleviate humanitarian suffering through such flights. After landing, the Iranian aircraft returned to Tehran with a Yemeni delegation for a funeral. Saudi Arabia has maintained a blockade on Yemen since 2015, contributing to a severe humanitarian crisis. While the blockade was partially eased in 2023, the Houthis continue to resist. The Houthis have also imposed blockades on ships linked to Israel in the Red Sea in response to the conflict in Gaza. This action by the Houthis has prompted US and European navies to withdraw from the region.