Saudi Arabia says it 'will not hesitate' to defend itself after Houthi attacks wound dozens

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal warned that his kingdom will not shy away from defending itself after Houthi rebels attacked energy facilities in the southern part of the country, injuring at least 73 civilians, including women and children. The Saudi-led coalition said the attacks targeted sites in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran.

One ballistic missile and one drone were launched from northern Yemen towards the kingdom on Monday, while the Saudi Energy Ministry reported the attacks took place on Tuesday morning, causing injuries and halting operations. Despite ongoing efforts to contain the fires, the attacks have driven up oil prices, with Brent crude nearing $100 a barrel.

The Houthis accused Saudi Arabia of violating their sovereign territory and vowed further attacks unless Saudi Arabia stops its strikes on Yemen. The kingdom's Gulf Arab neighbors and international partners condemned the attacks, with the UAE calling them a "flagrant violation" of Saudi sovereignty.