Sanaa: In a devastating turn of events, an Israeli airstrike on Sanaa Airport has destroyed the last remaining passenger aircraft of Yemenia Airways, which was scheduled to transport pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj.
The strike, which took place on May 28, 2025, comes amid escalating tensions in the region. Israeli defense officials confirmed that the attack was in retaliation for a Houthi missile fired towards Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, which was intercepted. Yemenia’s final plane, the last operational aircraft in its fleet, was destroyed before it could depart for the pilgrimage.
This attack has severely impacted Yemen’s civil aviation, leading to the suspension of all commercial flights from Sanaa Airport. Yemenia Airways has announced that all Hajj flights have been canceled due to the destruction of their only aircraft capable of such long-distance flights. The airline is working on making alternative arrangements for the affected pilgrims, though it may take time to fully restore the airport’s operations.
Authorities in Yemen have condemned the strike as a serious blow to civilian infrastructure, calling it an unjustified attack on the country’s ability to serve its people, especially during such an important religious occasion.
This tragic event has raised further concerns over the safety of civilian flights in conflict zones, especially as tensions between Israel and Houthi rebels continue to escalate.
Source: The New Arab