Tension in the Middle East: Houthis Attack Riyadh, Italy Provides Assurance

The Houthi movement has announced that it struck sensitive targets in the Saudi cities of Riyadh and Yanbu, including facilities of the oil company Aramco. In a statement, the Yemeni militants claimed that the action is a response to Saudi attempts to attack their capital, Sanaa.

Following the attack on the Saudi base in Ta'if, where an Italian Eurofighter was damaged, the Houthi movement clarified that it is not at war with Italy, emphasizing that Italian aircraft are present in Saudi Arabia as part of support for Riyadh. This statement was also made public through the ANSA agency.

In light of recent explosions reported near Riyadh airport, as noted by residents, the risk of further attacks has raised concerns in the Saudi capital. Flights have been canceled or delayed, as reported by Flightradar.

In response to the developments, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed that Italy is not at war, but highlighted the need to strengthen the Aspides mission, which has a defensive character. This call was reiterated at the UN, where Tajani urged additional commitment from other member states.

Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, has prepared a letter directed to member states, asking them to discuss measures to strengthen the Aspides mission. Kallas warned that an increase in naval and aerial resources is necessary to address new threats in the Red Sea.

The debate also concerns the sharing of operational costs, with Italy expressing willingness to send additional ships, but the issue of expenses remains unresolved. Discussions will continue in the context of the Defence Council.