Saudi Arabia strikes back after Houthis hit oil sites in heaviest attack in years

Saudi Arabia retaliated after the Iran-backed Houthis launched their heaviest attack in years, targeting oil facilities and other sites across the border. The assault caused injuries to 73 people and forced temporary shutdowns at oil sites. Riyadh launched strikes on Taiz and Marib provinces in response, as analysts suggested the conflict could spiral into further escalation.

Saudi Arabia struck the Taiz province, where fighting had been ongoing, and Marib province, the Houthi-controlled Almasirah TV station reported. The Houthis, who control roughly one-third of Yemen, are attempting to capture the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a crucial oil route. The attacks on oil infrastructure and Saudi tankers have contributed to a surge in oil prices, nearing $100 per barrel.

The group claimed responsibility for the attack on a prison that killed 11 people and left 20 inmates missing, according to Houthi-controlled Almasirah TV. The Saudi Foreign Minister stated that diplomacy remains an option, but Riyadh is prepared to defend itself and protect its interests. The Houthis initiated hostilities in July after the Iran-backed Iran plane landed in Yemen, prompting Saudi retaliation.

This latest episode in the Yemen civil war, which has claimed hundreds of lives, highlights the escalating tensions between the two parties.