Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have promised to retaliate against Saudi Arabia after accusing the kingdom of striking civilian areas. The threat came on Saturday, following Saudi airstrikes on Houthi military targets in the port city of Hodeida, Yemen, on Friday. Rebel media reported that two people were wounded in the strikes.
The Houthis had earlier announced a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia, a major oil producer, and attacked Saudi ships. The latest exchange marks an escalation in the conflict that has spread across the Middle East. The Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen, including the capital Sanaa, have been fighting a Saudi-led coalition since 2015. They are backed by Iran, which Riyadh accuses of arming and training the rebels.
The Saudi strikes came after the Houthis claimed responsibility for a missile attack on Saudi territory. Details of the attack were not immediately clear. The Houthis described the Saudi strikes as a "dangerous escalation" and vowed to respond. International observers have expressed concern that the conflict could draw in more regional powers, as tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia continue to simmer.
The war in Yemen has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions facing food shortages and disease. The United Nations has called for a ceasefire, but fighting has persisted.