Saudi reports fresh Houthi attacks as France offers military support

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia intercepted Houthi ballistic missiles on Thursday, following warnings for several regions including Makkah, as France pledged military support to protect the vital Saudi oil terminal of Yanbu. The attacks occurred amidst ongoing fighting in Yemen between Houthis and government forces backed by Riyadh, resulting in numerous casualties on both sides.

Since July, the Houthis have launched a series of escalating attacks, imposing a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia and seizing parts of the Red Sea coast vital for oil exports. The Saudi-led coalition, consisting of Yemen's government forces, has reported intercepting six ballistic missiles, thwarting attacks on Taif and Yanbu. Coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki warned that further escalation by the Houthi militia would be met with firm action.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian denied directing the Houthi attacks but claimed responsibility for their actions. French President Emmanuel Macron announced France would send military assets, including soldiers, radars, and defense systems, to safeguard Yanbu, a key energy hub. Battles continue in Yemen, with at least 150 Houthi fighters and government forces killed in the past 24 hours, primarily due to Houthi missile and drone attacks. The Houthis also claimed to have launched attacks on Aramco infrastructure in Yanbu and Riyadh.