Houthi missile and drone barrage wounds 73 in southern Saudi Arabia

Saudi authorities said the coordinated Houthi attacks resulted in casualties that included women and children across several provinces in the country's south. The Iranian-backed militant group has intensified cross-border strikes in recent months using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and armed drones.

The attacks represent the latest escalation in the yearslong conflict between the Saudi-led coalition and Houthi forces in Yemen. The militants have repeatedly targeted Saudi infrastructure and populated areas, with the kingdom's air defenses regularly intercepting incoming projectiles.

Saudi officials have characterized the strikes as evidence of the Houthis' continued threats to regional stability and civilian populations. The group, which controls much of Yemen's population centers, has stated its attacks are a response to the coalition's military campaign and blockade of Yemen.

The incidents underscore the humanitarian toll of the conflict, which has devastated Yemen's economy and health system while creating spillover effects in neighboring countries. International observers have called for renewed diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and prevent further civilian casualties on both sides of the border.