Italian Eurofighter damaged in Houthi attack on Saudi military base

An Italian fighter jet was heavily damaged while parked at a military base in Saudi Arabia during aerial attacks, Italy’s Defence Ministry said on Friday, September 18.

The Eurofighter, designated an F-2000, was parked in a remote area of the Saudi military base in Taif when the attacks took place, according to foreign media reports citing the ministry. No injuries were reported.

“There is no further damage to vehicles or infrastructure used by our personnel,” Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said.

The attacks also struck another military base and an oil facility and were attributed to the Houthi militia in neighbouring Yemen, which is equipped with drones and missiles.

Saudi Arabia’s air force is currently conducting combat missions against targets in Yemen in support of the Yemeni government in its fight against the Shiite militia.

In a lightning offensive last week, the Houthis brought the entire Red Sea coast of Yemen under their control.

Italy participates in several international missions in the region.

By Tamilla Hasanova