Houthis Strike Saudi Cities as Middle East Conflict Escalates
The Middle East conflict is escalating as Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launch drones and missiles at Saudi cities, prompting hundreds of air strikes by the Kingdom. The Houthis claim to be advancing in parts of Yemen, further widening a conflict that has been raging for years.
According to the Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Saree, the group launched fresh drone and missile strikes on the major Saudi Red Sea oil port of Yanbu and at a southern Saudi airbase at Khamis Mushait. The Houthis have repeatedly targeted Saudi oil facilities in Jizan, Jazan province, causing concerns over global energy supply.
The attacks have disrupted up to 4% of global oil shipments, exacerbating the supply shortage triggered by the US and Israel's decision to launch a war on Iran. The price of Brent crude has hovered around $108 a barrel, close to its highest levels since May.