Houthi Attacks Spark Concerns Over Mideast Shipping Routes as Iran-Oman Deal Takes Shape

The Houthi rebels in Yemen have launched attacks on a government-held port and an oil facility in Saudi Arabia, sparking concerns over the safety of Middle East shipping routes.

According to the Yemeni government-allied National Resistance Forces, at least seven people were killed and 15 civilians injured in the attack on the Red Sea port of Mokha. The Houthi rebels fired missiles and drones, severely damaging port buildings and piers as well as commercial goods and food supplies.

The Saudi Energy Ministry reported a fire at an Aramco refinery facility in Jazan, but no casualties were reported. Yahya Saree, a Houthi military spokesperson, said the attack was in response to Saudi drones breaching Yemen's airspace over Hajjah and Saada provinces.

In related news, Iran and Oman are working on a temporary deal to manage the Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for global oil and gas supplies. The agreement would allow ships to transit through the strait without paying fees or tolls during an interim period.