'Saudi airspace won't be safe,' say Houthis as they issue warning to airlines. Iran-backed Houthis have issued a warning to airlines operating in Saudi Arabia that the kingdom's airspace is unsafe. This comes amid a military offensive by Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces that are advancing into areas around the strategic Bab-el-Mandeb. Saudi Arabia is providing air support as the government forces seek to drive Houthis away from the vital coastal corridor.