Houthis Escalate Yemen Conflict as Iran-Backed Forces Target Saudi Oil Facilities

Yemen is on the brink of all-out conflict as Iranian-backed Houthi forces have launched a ground offensive against government troops along the Red Sea coast, while firing missiles and drones at oil facilities in southern Saudi Arabia. In response, Riyadh has retaliated with airstrikes inside Yemen.

Helen Lackner, author of 'Yemen in Crisis: Road to War', predicts that this campaign will be 'bloody'. The Houthis have been gaining strength due to consistent investment from Iran and the US underestimating their capabilities. They now control much of northern and western Yemen, including the capital Sanaa.

The internationally recognized government of Yemen holds most of the south and east, including the strategic port city of Aden. The Houthis have also developed advanced missile, drone, and maritime warfare capabilities with support from Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon.