Saudi Arabia is facing a surge in attacks from multiple directions as tensions in the region escalate. Yemen's Houthi group threatened a "maritime embargo" on Saudi ports last week and launched missiles at the cities of Jazan and Yanbu, according to reports. The Houthis also claimed to have targeted two Saudi oil ships in the Red Sea, with Riyadh confirming one attack.
The Houthi escalation came after Saudi Arabia struck Sanaa International Airport more than two weeks ago, following the Houthis' decision to resume direct flights from Iran. The attack on the airport was a red line for the Houthis, analysts said.
Separately, Saudi Arabia said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed several drones targeting oil facilities in the Eastern Province and Riyadh. The Ministry of Defense blamed Iran-backed militias operating from Iraq for the drone attacks, calling them terrorist acts. The ministry reserved the right to respond and called on Iraq to prevent its territory from being used for such attacks.
While the Houthis claimed responsibility for the maritime threats and missile strikes, Saudi Arabia attributed the drone attacks to Iraqi-based militias. The differing accounts highlight the complex web of actors involved. The renewed violence threatens the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a key oil chokepoint, and puts pressure on Saudi Arabia's remaining export routes amid the wider conflict involving the US and Iran.