Italian jet hit in strikes on Saudi air base

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

Crosetto said he was following the situation at Saudi Arabia’s Ta’if air base, “which was the target of several strikes and where Italian personnel are present as part of Operation Inherent Resolve.”

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 said he had asked for a further assessment of the developing situation, the condition of their personnel and possible operational options.

Crosetto added that he had been assured 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 added.

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

Fighting between Yemen’s government forces and Houthi rebels has also intensified since early July.