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Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia result in 73 injuries
A series of Houthi attacks in southwestern Saudi Arabia left 73 civilians injured and caused fires at oil facilities.
On Tuesday, Houthi forces from Yemen launched a series of attacks in several cities in southwestern Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran, resulting in 73 injuries, according to the coalition led by Riyadh. The attacks also affected energy facilities, causing fires that led to temporary disruptions of operations at some of these sites, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The coalition, which supports the Yemeni government, issued a statement reaffirming its intention to respond to what it described as an escalation by the rebel group. Coalition spokesman Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki characterized the attacks as dangerous and a clear demonstration of the group’s hostility.
In addition to the injuries, there were reports of significant damage to civilian properties and the country's energy infrastructure, which is one of the world's leading oil exporters. The attacks were seen as a continuation of hostilities amid an escalation of regional confrontations, with tensions heightened by weeks of fighting between Saudi-backed forces and the Houthis in Yemen.
Some reports indicate that the Houthi attacks included the use of missiles and drones aimed at strategic targets such as Aramco facilities, the state oil company. The situation led to a slight increase in oil prices on the international market, nearing levels not seen since July, according to several news sources.
The Saudi government condemned the Houthi actions and reaffirmed its readiness to defend its territory and people. The international community, including several Arab nations, also condemned the attacks, deeming them a violation of international norms and a threat to regional security.
Meanwhile, the Houthi group issued statements claiming that their actions are a response to Saudi military operations in Yemen, continuing a conflict that has lasted for years and has recently intensified. The consequences of the attacks are still being assessed, but the situation remains tense and unpredictable.