Yemen Conflict Escalates with Houthi Attacks on Oil Facilities

The conflict in Yemen has escalated after Houthi rebels attacked oil facilities and Saudi tankers, wounding dozens. The Houthis declared a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia in July, squeezing exports already reeling from Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

According to an AFP tally based on sources from each camp, more than 500 people have died in the fighting, mostly combatants. Houthi attacks on oil infrastructure and Saudi tankers are piling pressure on the world's top oil exporter.

Saudi Arabia retaliated with strikes on Tuesday after the Houthis targeted oil facilities. The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that 'behind some of this is clearly the Iranian hand.'