Houthis Claim Drone Strikes on Saudi Oil Transport Facilities Amid Escalating Tensions

The Houthi group in Yemen claimed to have launched drone strikes on facilities involved in transporting crude oil from eastern Saudi Arabia to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. According to a statement posted on social media platform X, the group targeted 'a number of sensitive sites and facilities' using 'multiple drones.' The statement did not identify the targeted locations or provide details on the number of drones used.

The claim came hours after Saudi Arabia said its air defenses had intercepted and destroyed drones launched from Iraq that attempted to target oil facilities in the kingdom's Eastern province and the capital, Riyadh. The Saudi Defense Ministry stated that the drones were launched by Iran-backed armed groups operating in Iraq.

This latest development is part of a sharp escalation that began last week when the Houthi group imposed a maritime ban on Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea, citing a blockade on areas under its control. Both sides have since exchanged military strikes, with the Houthis claiming attacks on Saudi-linked vessels and energy infrastructure, and the Saudi-led coalition conducting airstrikes on Houthi-held sites in Yemen.

Singapore has condemned the recent attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, including on energy infrastructure and commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stated that it is 'imperative that navigational rights and freedoms are respected and upheld in accordance with international law.' They urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions.