Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels launched attacks using dozens of cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and drones against nashwannews.com facilities in the Red Sea cities of Yanbu and Jizan on Saturday. The military spokesman for the Houthis, Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, stated the operation was a response to Saudi airstrikes on the strategic city of Hodeida.
Houthi Rebels Attack Saudi Aramco Oil Facilities in Jizan and Yanbu
Saudi Arabia reported the interception of two ballistic missiles targeting oil refineries in Yanbu. According to Reuters, Greek security sources stated that a Patriot missile system, operated by a Greek force deployed in the Kingdom since 2021, intercepted the missiles before a drone heading toward Yanbu was later shot down. No casualties or damages were recorded in Yanbu, though social media videos showed dark smoke rising over an Aramco refinery in Jizan. Two Asia-based commercial sources reported potential damage to oil and fuel storage sites in Jizan.
Civil Defense Alerts and Maritime Incidents
The attacks triggered multiple emergency alerts via the national early warning platform. Saudi civil defense reported that sirens sounded three consecutive times in Yanbu and once in Jizan, with authorities advising residents to shelter inside buildings and stay away from windows. The alerts were later lifted after the danger passed.
The escalation follows a series of maritime threats. The Saudi General Transport Authority announced that the Saudi vessel “NC Masa” was targeted while sailing in the Red Sea, resulting in minor hull damage. The vessel completed its journey after the safety of the crew and ship was confirmed. The authority described the attack as a violation of international laws and norms regarding the security of commercial ships.
Saudi-Led Coalition Response
Further military activity was reported by Yemeni officials to Reuters, stating that the Yemeni government air force carried out raids on Houthi weapon depots and launch sites for drones and missiles in the Al-Jawf and Marib governorates.
Regional Stakes and Strategic Implications
This escalation marks a significant shift in the conflict, with the Financial Times noting these are the first announced Saudi strikes since a truce began four years ago. Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi warned that all Saudi oil and vital facilities would be targets for drones and missiles if Riyadh increases its involvement in the conflict. The rebels have also declared a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia over the past week and threatened to close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to Saudi-linked shipping.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a critical chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, handling approximately 12% of global trade and 25% of container traffic. These tensions coincide with ongoing pressure in the Strait of Hormuz due to conflicts between the U.S. and Iran. A Pakistani official told Reuters that halting attacks on Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states has become a prerequisite for resuming talks between Washington and Tehran.
The United Nations has called for an immediate reduction in escalation. The UN Secretary-General expressed grave concern that the resumption of Houthi attacks on commercial shipping could drag Yemen into a wider conflict, urging the restoration of freedom of navigation.
