Houthis Strike Saudi Oil Facilities as Iran Expands Influence

The Middle East has witnessed an escalation in hostilities this week, driving oil prices to nearly $100 per barrel. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia confirmed that Houthi strikes targeting energy infrastructure resulted in 73 civilian injuries, including women and children.

According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Trump administration is closely tracking developments. He stated, 'The Houthis, in many ways, are agents and proxies of the Iranians. I think behind some of this is clearly the Iranian hand.'

The Houthi military spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, warned that their attacks will continue. In a video statement claiming responsibility for the strikes, he said, 'We confirm with the help of God and his power, we will continue our operations in the depth of Saudi Arabia and target its military and retaliating with a siege against a siege until the aggression stops and the siege is lifted from our beloved country.'

The situation has also been marked by threats from Iran. Iranian Supreme National Security Council Director Mohsen Rezaei told state media that they will announce a restricted exclusion zone outside the Strait of Hormuz, which will begin from the line of the U.S. naval blockade and extend toward the Strait of Hormuz.

The U.S. Treasury announced new sanctions targeting the Iranian aviation industry, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed these sanctions as ineffective, saying 'After failing to achieve its aims through sanctions or war, Washington’s 'novel' solution is more sanctions. Seriously?'