Houthis threaten wider escalation against Saudi Arabia

Yemen's Houthi rebels have announced three rules of engagement in their escalating conflict with Saudi Arabia, threatening a wider escalation against the kingdom. The group's military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, detailed their actions, stating that Houthi forces have targeted eight Saudi oil vessels since imposing a maritime blockade on July 20. The attacks have occurred primarily in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea.

Saree reported that Houthi forces have forced 48 Saudi oil vessels to retreat, including 34 vessels in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean and 14 in the Red Sea. The group has launched nine attacks against key cities and oil supplies in Saudi Arabia, including Yanbu, Najran, Jizan, Abha, and the Eastern Province. Additionally, Houthi forces have targeted 14 Saudi military deployments in various locations across Yemen.

Saree warned that any comprehensive escalation from the Saudi side will be met with a similarly comprehensive response. He demanded that Saudi Arabia lift its blockade, halt its offensive operations, pay public-sector salaries, withdraw foreign troops from Yemen, and ensure that all natural resources remain firmly under Yemeni control.