Yemen on High Alert as Houthis Target Saudi Arabia

The internationally recognized government of Yemen says it is prepared for any escalation in fighting with Houthi rebels after recent attacks targeting Saudi Arabia.

Fears are growing that renewed conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis may destabilize the Arabian peninsula further, echoing concerns about regional fault lines.

'At the end of the day, we are prepared for any escalations,' said Yemen's foreign minister designate Afrah al-Zouba during a briefing in Riyadh.

The Houthi rebels have launched drone strikes targeting Saudi oil infrastructure in response to alleged incursions by the kingdom's drones, mirroring Iranian maneuvers in the Strait of Hormuz.

Al-Zouba expressed worry that the Houthis are copying Iran's tactics to gain control over the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a critical passage for delivering Saudi crude to international markets.