Houthi Attack Sends Brent Crude Prices Soaring on Saudi Supply Fears

Yemen's Houthi forces launched a surprise attack on Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, with missile and drone barrages. The strike resulted in flight delays at King Khalid International Airport and a fire at an Aramco fuel storage facility nearby.

Although Saudi air defenses successfully intercepted a ballistic missile, the direct strike on the capital has heightened energy supply risks, driving Brent crude prices up 3.1% to $107.82 per barrel in early Monday trade.

The attack marks the first time Riyadh has been targeted since July 2026 and exposes critical infrastructure, including Aramco's assets. Global oil supply bypass options are bottlenecked due to the East-West pipeline being offline following earlier strikes.