Houthi Attacks on Saudi Oil Could Force Trump's Hand in Iran Conflict

Yemen's Houthi militants have escalated their attacks on Saudi Arabia's energy facilities, destabilizing the world's largest oil exporter and strengthening Iran's hand. The rebels claimed responsibility for drone and missile strikes on the Jazan oil facility, as well as a 'widespread destruction operation' against Saudi forces in the Red Sea port of Al-Makha.

The attacks come after strikes in the past week on shipping in Bab al-Mandab, threatening another critical maritime trade route. Saudi Arabia's energy ministry acknowledged a fire at the Jazan refinery but claimed it was quickly extinguished with no injuries reported.

Saudi priorities had been to stop Iran from rebuilding Houthi military capacity and to prevent the conflict from spreading to the Red Sea. However, this has not worked, according to Dr Neil Quilliam, associate fellow at Chatham House's Middle East and North Africa programme.

The Houthis want to use the wider regional war and attacks on Saudi-linked vessels and energy assets to force Saudi Arabia to lift the blockade of the key port of Hodeida. This would increase the flow of arms through Hodeida, allowing them to consolidate their territorial grip and challenge opposing groups in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia is in a strategic bind, seeking a return to stability without showing weakness to its enemies. 'Privately, one must assume that they are having conversations with the White House,' said Christopher Phillips, professor of international relations at Queen Mary University of London.