Houthis Strike Four Saudi Cities, Target Energy Facilities and Injure 73
Iran-backed Houthi forces launched a major wave of missile and drone attacks against four cities in southern Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, striking military and energy-related targets and injuring at least 73 people, according to Saudi authorities.
The attacks targeted Khamis Mushait, Abha, Najran and Jazan. The Houthis said they targeted a Saudi airbase in Khamis Mushait and facilities linked to Saudi Arabia’s state oil company in the other cities, including energy infrastructure in Jazan, home to a major refinery and power plant.
Saudi authorities reported that fires broke out at several energy facilities, forcing some operations to be temporarily halted while emergency crews responded to the damage. The reported casualties included women and children.
The strikes mark a major escalation in the renewed fighting between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, following a period of relative calm since the 2022 ceasefire. Saudi-led coalition officials have vowed to take further measures against the Houthi movement.
The attacks also sent Brent crude prices toward $100 per barrel, reflecting growing concerns over the security of energy infrastructure and shipping routes across the wider Middle East.
The situation remains highly fluid. Casualty figures, damage assessments and claims by the opposing sides may change, and some battlefield details have not yet been independently verified.