Italian aircraft hit during air base attacks in Saudi Arabia

An Italian aircraft was hit during air base attacks in Saudi Arabia, Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced Friday.

Crosetto noted he followed the situation in Saudi Arabia's Ta'if air base "which was the target of several attacks and where Italian personnel are present as part of Operation Inherent Resolve," according to ANSA news agency.

He reaffirmed that no Italian military personnel were involved.

"During the attack, an Italian F-2000 aircraft was hit. It was inside the base, in a remote area. There is no other damage to vehicles or infrastructure used by our personnel,” Crosetto said.

He noted that he asked to be provided with further assessment of the evolving situation, the condition of their personnel and possible operational options.

Crosetto added that he had been reassured that all security measures to protect military personnel had already been put in place some time ago.

“The situation is being followed with the utmost attention, with the aim of ensuring the full protection of our personnel and operating with the necessary responsibility," Crosetto further said.

Saudi Arabia has faced a series of missile and drone attacks attributed to the Houthis in recent days amid escalating regional tensions.

Fighting between Yemeni government forces and the Houthis has also intensified since early July.

The renewed clashes have ended a period of relative calm that had largely held since a UN-brokered truce took effect in April 2022.