Houthis Escalate Attacks on Saudi Oil Facilities

The Houthi rebels have escalated their attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting key oil facilities and sparking concern among the kingdom's allies. The Saudi government has requested military support from its partners under a mutual defense pact.

France has confirmed it will send troops to guard the major oil terminal at Yanbu, which hosts significant oil storage and refining facilities. The port is connected by the East-West Pipeline, capable of carrying up to 7 million barrels per day.

The Houthi attacks have disrupted oil flows from Saudi Arabia, the world's largest energy exporter. Brent crude prices rose over 3% on Thursday, briefly topping $108 a barrel, before easing to $105.77. Analysts predict that oil will likely remain above $100 a barrel as long as the conflict continues.

Saudi officials are meeting with peers from Pakistan and Turkiye to discuss options under their defense pact. However, doubts persist over what action these countries might take, given their roles as mediators in regional conflicts.