Houthi Rebels Launch Devastating Attacks on Saudi Arabia

A devastating escalation of violence has erupted in Yemen as the Houthi rebels launched drone and missile attacks on Saudi cities and energy facilities. According to the Saudi-led coalition, civilian and economic sites were targeted in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran, resulting in injuries to women and children.

The attacks also damaged several energy sector facilities and installations, causing fires at multiple locations and temporarily halting operations. The Houthis claimed they had responded to Saudi aggression with dozens of ballistic missiles and drones, which caused significant damage.

The conflict has been ongoing for over a decade, with the Houthi rebels fighting against the Yemeni government backed by the Saudi-led coalition. Tensions escalated in July when the Houthis announced a maritime embargo on Saudi Arabia, followed by missile and drone attacks on Saudi airports, oil facilities, and tankers.

The recent fighting has left over 300 people dead and displaced 18,500, with heavy fighting reported on Yemen's south-western coast. The Red Sea has become crucial for oil shipments from Saudi Arabia during the US and Israel's war with Iran, which has led to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz in the Gulf.