Saudi Resident Killed by Drone Debris as Tensions Escalate with Houthi Rebels

A Saudi resident was killed and two others injured when debris from an intercepted Houthi drone fell in Taif province, according to the Saudi civil defense.

The incident marks the first civilian casualty since the Iran-backed rebels increased their attacks against the kingdom, targeting Saudi shipping and oil facilities.

Saudi officials have not commented on claims by the Houthis that they downed a Saudi F-15 fighter jet in Yemen's central province of Marib. The Associated Press could not independently verify this claim.

The escalating tensions are adding pressure to global oil supplies and prices, as the Houthis have seized key port cities and strategic islands in the Red Sea, threatening international shipping.