Houthis claim fresh strikes on Saudi energy infrastructure as Yemen conflict escalates

The Houthi military wing said it had launched coordinated strikes using advanced missiles and unmanned aircraft against energy sector targets in Saudi Arabia's capital. Eyewitness accounts and social media reports documented smoke and flames visible near facilities operated by Saudi Aramco, the kingdom's state oil producer, though the company had not issued an immediate statement on the incident.

The alleged attack represents a significant escalation in the yearslong conflict between the Saudi-led coalition and Houthi forces, who have intermittently targeted energy infrastructure across the Gulf region. Previous strikes attributed to the group have disrupted global oil markets and raised concerns about maritime security in one of the world's most critical shipping lanes.

The Yemen conflict, which began in 2015 when the Houthis seized the capital Sanaa, has spawned a humanitarian catastrophe affecting millions of civilians. The group has progressively upgraded its weaponry and demonstrated the ability to strike deep into Saudi territory despite the coalition's air defense systems and military superiority.

Saudi Arabia has not yet confirmed details of the attack or any damage sustained. International observers have called repeatedly for negotiations to end the conflict, which has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions across Yemen.