Houthi Strikes Ignite Saudi Oil Fires as UK Prepares Settlement Goods Ban

Houthi attacks on Saudi oil facilities have set off fires and wounded at least 73 people, officials said. The incidents occurred in the southern region of Saudi Arabia, specifically in the cities of Abha's Jazan, Najran, and Khamis Mushait. Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki, a spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen, stated that 'civilian and economic facilities' were targeted.

The attacks temporarily halted operations at several oil facilities and utilities in the region, according to the Saudi Energy Ministry. Al-Malki noted that those wounded included women and children. The Houthi strikes mark a major escalation in the conflict between the U.S.-backed government forces and Iranian-backed rebels in Yemen.

Meanwhile, the UK is set to ban goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband will provide details of the ban in the House of Commons later on Tuesday. The move aims to counter an expansion program by the Netanyahu administration that threatens efforts to establish a Palestinian state.