Houthis attack Saudi energy facilities, wounding dozens and sending oil prices higher

On Tuesday, the Yemen-based Houthi militia launched attacks on energy facilities and cities in Saudi Arabia, causing injuries to over 70 individuals and highlighting the potential for a wider regional conflict in the wake of the ongoing Iran crisis. The six-month-long conflict between Iran and the US has seen periods of ceasefires interspersed with renewed hostilities since the February 28 strikes aimed at halting Tehran's nuclear program.

Iran had previously warned that vital energy infrastructure across the Gulf, including American oil and gas interests, could be compromised during a recent exchange of attacks on ships in and around the Gulf. These strikes contributed to a surge in oil prices, surpassing a six-week high. At least three fires broke out at some energy sites, while emergency services rushed to contain the blazes.

Colonel Turki al-Malki, a spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, vowed that the coalition would take all necessary steps to counteract the Houthi militia's actions. The attacks, which targeted four cities in southern Saudi Arabia, are part of a larger pattern of strikes by the Houthis against Saudi Arabia since they declared a naval blockade in July.

The ongoing conflict has heightened concerns over global oil and gas supplies, with Iran continuing to limit shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iran has reportedly announced plans to establish a new restricted zone in the Gulf, along with a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz.