Houthi Rebels Launch Major Attack on Southern Saudi Cities
The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, launched a major attack on four cities in southern Saudi Arabia, wounding over 70 people and setting oil installations ablaze. The attacks, which were carried out using drones and missiles, targeted a Saudi airbase in Khamis Mushait and facilities belonging to the state-owned oil company in Abha, Najran, and Jazan.
The assault is seen as a significant escalation of the six-month-old Middle East war, with Brent crude prices surging more than 2% to above $99 a barrel. The Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying they had launched a broad operation deep into Saudi territory.
Saudi authorities confirmed blazes at the targeted sites and reported that women and children were among those injured. Colonel Turki al-Malki, spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition, vowed to take 'all necessary operational measures' to deter the Houthi rebels.