Residents in the Saudi capital of Riyadh reported new explosions as fighting intensified between the Iran-backed Houthis and Saudi-led forces. The blasts occurred amid a broader escalation of hostilities, with the Houthis accusing Saudi Arabia of continued military aggression in Yemen.
The Iran-backed Houthis announced a major military operation targeting oil facilities and an international airport in Saudi Arabia. The attack, which took place on Tuesday, was claimed to have disrupted critical infrastructure and caused significant damage. The rebels warned that they would continue targeting Saudi airports and oil sites in the coming days, citing the deployment of more advanced weapons by Iran.
Oil prices rose globally as the attacks unfolded, with Brent crude futures increasing by 0.3% to $106.03 a barrel and US West Texas Intermediate crude futures climbing 0.3% to $94.42 a barrel. The surge in prices was attributed to heightened tensions and the strategic move by Iran to influence global markets.
The conflict in Yemen, which has seen repeated clashes between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia, has resulted in over a dozen civilian casualties and numerous injuries. The Makkah defense pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has been reaffirmed as both nations seek to strengthen regional security. The ongoing attacks highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics involving Iran, Yemen, and the Gulf states.
