A Saudi-led coalition has announced plans to warn civilians to evacuate a site in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, ahead of a special operation. A coalition spokesperson said on Tuesday that the warning would be issued shortly. The announcement comes amid rising tensions between the coalition and Yemen’s Houthi movement.
Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree warned that any strikes on Sanaa would trigger a strong response in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. He described the potential retaliation as “harsh and painful.” His statement raised concerns about further escalation between the opposing sides.
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The coalition spokesperson did not identify the site targeted for the planned operation. The announcement also provided no further details about the operation’s timing or specific objectives. The planned evacuation warning indicates that civilians in the affected area are being urged to leave before military action.
The latest developments come amid continuing tensions involving the Saudi-led coalition and the Houthis. The movement controls Sanaa, which has remained a central location in Yemen’s prolonged conflict. Any military operation in the capital could increase security concerns for residents.
The Houthi warning focused on possible strikes against Sanaa and threatened retaliation in Riyadh. However, the available statement did not specify what form such retaliation might take. Neither side’s latest remarks provided details about the scale or duration of any planned military action.
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The situation also follows a Houthi claim of an attack targeting Riyadh airport with a ballistic missile, according to a report published by Business Recorder. Details of that claim were not included in the latest announcement about the planned operation in Sanaa.
The planned warning and the Houthis’ threat highlight the risk of further confrontation in the region. The coalition has yet to provide additional details about the site or operation. Developments will depend on the actions taken by both sides and whether the threatened strikes or retaliation occur.