RIYADH/DUBAI: Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement launched a series of attacks on southern Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, injuring 73 people and forcing operations at some energy facilities to be temporarily halted, in one of the most serious escalations between the two sides in recent years.
Saudi authorities said civilian and economic sites in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran were targeted. Fires broke out at several energy installations, prompting firefighters and emergency teams to respond while officials assessed the extent of the damage. Saudi Arabia said the injured included civilians and described the attacks as a “dangerous escalation.”
The Houthis have intensified attacks on Saudi targets since announcing a naval blockade against Riyadh in July. Saudi Arabia, which leads the coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government, said it would take measures necessary to defend its territory and deter further attacks.
The escalation is also having consequences far beyond Saudi Arabia. Oil markets reacted sharply to fears that additional attacks could disrupt Gulf energy infrastructure, with Brent crude moving towards $100 a barrel as tensions involving Iran, the United States and regional allies continue to rise.