Iran-backed Houthis attack Saudi oil facilities, injuring dozens
Houthi forces launched a series of drone and missile attacks against Saudi Arabian oil facilities and military bases, resulting in dozens of injuries and fires. The escalation has caused global oil prices to rise, further complicating the geopolitical landscape and energy security.
Why it matters
The attack threatens global energy supply chains and highlights the ongoing instability in the Middle East, which has direct economic consequences for the U.S. and global markets.
The Houthis, who control most of Yemen's populated areas, including the capital, said they had launched a broad operation deep into Saudi territory. They used drones and missiles to strike a Saudi airbase in the southern city of Khamis Mushait, and targets belonging to Saudi Arabia's state oil company in nearby Abha, Najran and Jazan, a major Red Sea port.
Saudi authorities described blazes at the sites and said women and children were among the 73 people hurt. The reports of such large numbers of wounded suggested the attacks were among the biggest carried out against Saudi Arabia since the United States and Israel launched their war against Iran in February.
Confirmed images of the aftermath of the attacks were not immediately available. The Houthis released pictures of an explosion of what they said were trucks from Saudi Arabia they had struck at the border in another area.
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